The Western Cape Government has moved to reassure residents that there is no fuel shortage in the province, while issuing a strong warning to suppliers accused of withholding stock in anticipation of higher prices.
Premier Alan Winde said the province has sufficient fuel reserves, despite growing concerns linked to instability in the Middle East.
“The Western Cape Government recognises the very real concerns raised about the impact of the Middle East conflict on fuel supply in the province,” the Government said.
“We want to assure residents that there is sufficient supply of fuel in the Western Cape to meet demand.”
Authorities say isolated shortages reported in some areas are not due to a lack of fuel, but rather to suppliers delaying deliveries.
The provincial government has flagged this as particularly damaging to the agricultural sector, where some farmers are reportedly receiving only about 20% of their usual diesel allocations.
According to Agri Western Cape, the situation is most severe in the Garden Route and West Coast districts, raising concern as the region approaches key periods for fruit harvesting and winter grain planting.
The Fuel Industry Association of South Africa is now working with agricultural stakeholders to identify companies that may be restricting supply.
Winde issued a stern warning to those found engaging in such practices.
“It is unethical for suppliers to delay the delivery of fuel, while waiting for prices to increase. Any supplier found to be engaged in this conduct will be assessed for legal liability and recourse,” he said.
He emphasised that there is no need for panic.
“There is no cause for concern. There is more than enough fuel in reserve. All suppliers must immediately release full orders of fuel to all clients. We will not tolerate suppliers unethically holding onto fuel, while our agricultural sector is under pressure.”
The Premier also highlighted the broader strain on farmers, noting that the sector is already grappling with challenges such as Foot-and-Mouth Disease.
“Fuel is a critical resource for the agricultural sector, particularly as we head into the fruit picking and winter grain planting season. This is a sector already under pressure as a result of Foot-and-Mouth Disease, it is unacceptable that unnecessary fuel rationing now poses an additional stressor,” he said.
The Provincial Disaster Management Centre continues to monitor the situation alongside multiple stakeholders, including Eskom and emergency medical services.
For now, the government says all other sectors remain unaffected, and it has committed to providing updates as the situation develops.
IOL News
Wendy Dondolo
iol.co.za