Government Announces Increase in Fuel Prices

The Government of Sierra Leone, through the National Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NPRA), has announced an immediate increase in fuel prices for January 2026, with petrol and diesel rising from NLe 25 to NLe 28.50 per litre. Prices for kerosene and fuel oil have also been adjusted.

According to the NPRA’s published Petroleum Pricing Regime for January 2026, the new rates reflect prevailing international market conditions, shipping and insurance costs, import duties, distribution margins, and other statutory levies. The authority provided a detailed breakdown of the pricing components, including freight charges, Platts average prices, port charges, excise duties, and infrastructure development levies.

Under the full pass-through pricing mechanism, the pump price for both petrol and diesel now stands at NLe 28.50 per litre, while kerosene is priced at NLe 26.76 per litre and fuel oil at NLe 25.98 per litre. The revised prices take effect immediately and are expected to impact households, businesses, and the transport sector nationwide.

The NPRA explained that the adjustments are based on fluctuations in the international oil market, exchange rate variations, and operational costs associated with importing petroleum products into Sierra Leone. The authority also emphasized measures to ensure the consistent supply of fuel across the country at the new rates.

The price increase is expected to contribute to higher transportation and commodity costs, given the central role of petrol and diesel in daily commuting and commercial activities. Consumers have been advised to anticipate increased fuel-related expenses and adjust their budgets accordingly.