Ghana’s Fuel Prices Remain Among Africa’s Top 10 Despite Cedi Recovery

Despite recent gains by the Ghanaian cedi and a series of fuel price cuts, Ghana still ranks among the top 10 most expensive countries in Africa for fuel in June 2025.

According to data from GlobalPetrolPrices.com, Ghanaians are paying approximately $1.399 per litre at the pump, placing the country 10th in Africa and 60th globally for high fuel prices.

Persistent High Prices Despite Relief Measures

This development comes on the heels of some positive economic news. The cedi has appreciated by over 24% since January 2025, and pump prices have seen seven consecutive downward revisions. As of mid-June 2025, petrol prices in Ghana averaged GHS 10.99 per litre, and diesel was priced around GHS 12.45 per litre.

Additionally, the government suspended a GHS 1 fuel levy, further easing costs for consumers. However, these measures have not significantly improved Ghana’s fuel affordability ranking across the continent.

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Africa’s Most Expensive Fuel Markets (June 2025)

Here’s how Ghana compares to other countries with high fuel prices in Africa:

1. Central African Republic – $1.830

2. Senegal – $1.725

3. Zimbabwe – $1.540

4. Côte d’Ivoire – $1.490

5. Burkina Faso – $1.481

6. Cameroon – $1.464

7. Malawi – $1.460

8. Morocco – $1.442

9. Uganda – $1.402

10. Ghana – $1.399

Even with relative economic improvements, Ghana’s position reflects underlying structural and market issues that continue to keep fuel prices high.

Why Are Prices Still High in Ghana?

Several factors contribute to Ghana’s persistent high fuel prices:

• Weak Refining Capacity: Ghana heavily relies on imported refined petroleum products due to the underperformance of its local refineries.

• Distribution and Logistics Costs: Poor transportation infrastructure and high distribution costs contribute to increased final prices at the pump.

• Price Adjustment Delays: Changes in global oil prices and forex gains take time to reflect in the local market due to regulatory and market inertia.

• High Taxes and Levies: Although one levy was recently suspended, Ghana still imposes various taxes and levies on fuel products.

Ghana’s fuel market reflects a broader challenge in many African countries: dependence on fuel imports and exposure to global oil price volatility. Even with currency appreciation or temporary price reliefs, deeper reforms are necessary to make fuel more affordable in the long term.