Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has called for nationwide fuel conservation measures as tensions in the Middle East disrupt global energy supplies. In a social media statement on March 16, 2026, he emphasized the need to prioritize essential services amid shortages caused by shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
The prime minister noted that countries dependent on fuel imports, including Ethiopia, face mounting challenges due to reduced oil flows through the critical waterway, which handles 20% of global supplies. "We must use oil sparingly and prioritize basic needs until normal supply systems resume," Abiy stated.
The current crisis stems from heightened US-Israel-Iran tensions affecting maritime routes. While Ethiopia works to secure alternative supplies, authorities are directing available fuel to healthcare, transportation, and emergency services. This development comes as Asian economies closely monitor energy security risks in 2026, with potential implications for regional markets and inflation trends.
