Dozens of small fishing boats remain anchored off Mozambique's capital, Maputo, as soaring fuel costs keep their owners from venturing to sea. Since the government raised prices in early May, citing the Middle East conflict's impact on supply, many fishermen in the Pescadores quarter have lacked funds for fuel.
Impact on Fishermen
Carlos Nguenha, vice president of the local community fisheries council, described the situation as dramatic. "These conflicts don't only impact those countries, they affect the whole world," he said, urging dialogue. His council represents 1,800 fishermen and 290 boats along Costa do Sol. Most are family breadwinners with no alternative work.
Price Hikes
In early May, Mozambique's energy authority raised petrol prices by 12% to 83.6 meticais ($1.3) per liter, and diesel by nearly 46% to a record $1.8 per liter. While regional fuel costs are slightly higher, the sharp increase and erratic supply hit hard in Mozambique, ranked the world's second-poorest country by a World Bank report in March 2026. With 81% living on less than $3 per day, most employment is informal and low-paying.
Struggles at Sea
Eduardo Alexandre, 49, and his crew returned empty-handed after over 24 hours at sea due to fuel shortage. "We needed another 10 liters," he said, noting it takes 6-7 hours to reach prime fishing grounds. Some fishermen buy small quantities of fuel in water and soft drink bottles, prompting a government crackdown on unapproved containers. Recommended sturdy containers cost $40-45 each, unaffordable for many.
Ripple Effects
Martinha Djive, a 42-year-old fish seller, said her children depend on fishing income. "Without fuel, the crisis affects everyone," she said. At the market, fewer fish are available at higher prices. Carlota Mabasso noted customers feel squeezed by rising fish prices. Despite poverty, Mozambique is rich in hydrocarbons; a TotalEnergies gas project in the north is Africa's largest private energy investment. The World Bank said the project and removal from a money-laundering grey list could boost investment, but fiscal space to respond to shocks is limited.
Economist Teresa Boene warned that rising costs risk pushing the most vulnerable into deeper precarity. "It is the government's role to protect its citizens," she said. "Fuel is the engine of the economy."
