Fuel supply stable in the immediate term, says DMPR

South Africans can be assured that fuel supply in the country remains stable in the immediate term.

This according to the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR).

“The department wishes to assure all South Africans that the country’s fuel supply remains stable in the immediate term, notwithstanding heightened volatility in global energy markets arising from ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

“Government is actively coordinating with industry stakeholders to secure both crude oil and refined petroleum products from a diversified range of sources, and a comprehensive plan is in place to manage potential supply risks,” the DMPR said in a statement.

Furthermore, fuel consignments scheduled for this month and April were “secured prior to the recent escalation in global tensions”. 

“These deliveries have commenced and are expected to adequately sustain national supply over the coming weeks,” the statement read.

The department noted that recent developments have “already exerted upward pressure on fuel prices”.
Crude oil prices have already surged, exceeding the $100 per barrel mark.

“[This is] driven by supply disruptions and heightened uncertainty affecting critical global shipping routes. 

“As a net importer of petroleum products, South Africa remains inherently exposed to these external dynamics. Sustained increases in international oil prices, coupled with exchange rate fluctuations, are expected to translate into higher domestic fuel prices in the months ahead.

“The department emphasises the critical importance of pricing transparency across the fuel value chain, particularly in respect of unregulated products, such as jet fuel. Industry stakeholders are expected to ensure that pricing practices are fair, justifiable, and fully compliant with applicable competition and consumer protection laws,” the statement said.

Engagements between government and industry stakeholders are continuing to “monitor supply, assess emerging risks, and coordinate timely and appropriate interventions where necessary”.

“While the short-term outlook remains stable, government is actively advancing measures to strengthen long-term energy security. These interventions include the diversification of fuel import sources, the enhancement of strategic storage capacity, and the acceleration of key infrastructure investments. 

“South Africa will continue to honour its regional supply obligations, while ensuring that the security of domestic fuel supply remains paramount. 

“The department will keep the public duly informed as developments unfold, and remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the country’s energy security and broader economic stability,” the statement said.

Showmax to shut down end April, content moves to DStv Stream

Streaming platform Showmax will be shut down at the end of April as it prepares to transition its content to a new home. Canal Plus, the French Company who now runs Multichoice, announced earlier this month that it is the end of the road for Showmax, a costly project that was reportedly bleeding the company dry.

In a statement to subscribers on Thursday morning, the service said it is "entering a new chapter", with popular shows set to move to DStv Stream.

Over the coming months, the standalone Showmax platform will be phased out, while its original productions and additional content are incorporated into the DStv streaming offering.

•31 March 2026: Last day to renew your Showmax subscription or redeem vouchers.
•1 April 2026: New subscriptions and renewals will no longer be available.

Showmax says more details about the transition will be shared with subscribers in due course. It is not yet known how much the monthly cost will be.

Motorists must plan ahead amid possible fuel shortages, warns AfriForum

AfriForum warns that certain petrol stations across the country are already experiencing fuel shortages due to the recent outbreak of conflict in the Middle East. Disruptions in the supply chain could possibly lead to sporadic fuel shortages locally, which can in turn catch motorists off guard if they do not plan ahead.

AfriForum’s Community Safety structures are increasingly receiving feedback from various parts of the country that some petrol stations are without certain types of fuel, especially diesel, or have a limited supply. Although this is not yet a national crisis, fuel shortages locally can still be an inconvenience and even pose safety risks for road users.

AfriForum therefore calls on the public to act responsibly and manage their travel plans and fuel consumption carefully.

“Motorists should not wait until their cars are almost out of fuel before they start looking for a petrol station. At a time when there is great uncertainty about the supply of fuel, it is wise to always maintain a reasonable safety margin,” says Jacques Broodryk, Chief Spokesperson for Community Safety at AfriForum.

Broodryk warns that running out of fuel on the side of the road is not only a logistical problem but can also be a safety risk – especially on remote roads or in areas that are hotspots for crime.

This is how AfriForum suggests motorists can protect themselves:

-Keep cars’ fuel tanks at least half full where possible, especially before long trips.
-Plan routes in advance and check where the next reliable fuel stations are.
-Avoid unnecessary trips if fuel is running low in an area.
-Keep a charged cellphone and an emergency contact list nearby.
-Park in a safe, visible place if the vehicle runs out of fuel and remain vigilant.
-Contact roadside assistance, the local AfriForum neighbourhood watch or reliable safety networks if help is needed.

“The reality in South Africa is that communities often have to take responsibility for their own safety. A simple thing like planning ahead with fuel can prevent people from finding themselves in vulnerable situations,” adds Broodryk.

AfriForum also encourages communities to support each other and share information about local fuel availability.
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