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Yendi and its surrounding areas in the Northern Region are grappling with a severe fuel shortage, leaving residents and businesses in a state of distress.
The crisis, which began four days ago, has led to long queues at fuel stations and inflated prices by small-scale sellers.
Over 11 fuel stations in the area are reported to be completely out of stock. The only station that received fuel late Thursday, January 9, had its limited supply quickly depleted due to high demand.
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Small-scale fuel sellers, seeing an opportunity amidst the chaos, have doubled their prices. “Those selling in small containers are exploiting the situation. For instance, if fuel previously cost 10 cedis, they are now selling it for 20 cedis,” a frustrated resident revealed.
The shortage has severely impacted transportation and business operations. Dokurugu Yarayi, a local resident, expressed his frustration after failing to secure fuel despite days of searching.
“This situation has stalled my work and movement. Those with patients at the hospital who need to commute are also struggling. We appeal to authorities to address this challenge urgently,” he lamented.
Another resident, Afa Abdul Rahman, shared his ordeal of being stranded in Yendi while attending a funeral. “I planned to return to Tamale to mobilise resources for the event, but this shortage has disrupted everything. Authorities must remember that while they may not feel the pinch, the masses are suffering and need relief,” he said.
Although lorry fares in Yendi have not yet increased, residents fear drivers will soon be forced to raise prices if the shortage persists.
“It’s only a matter of time before fares go up. With fuel in short supply, it’s inevitable,” said one driver, speaking under anonymity.
A similar crisis is unfolding in Damongo, located in the West Gonja District of the Savannah Region. Joy News’ Isaac Nongya reports that managers of fuel stations in Damongo blame the shortage on high fuel demand during the recent election period.
The exact cause of the shortage in Yendi remains unclear. However, residents and business owners are calling for immediate government intervention to alleviate the situation.
“We are suffering, and this fuel shortage is crippling our lives. The authorities must act swiftly to bring in more fuel to meet the demand,” Yarayi pleaded.
