South Kivu Governor Bans Import of Fuel to Boost Local Revenue
Jean Jacques Purusi, Governor of South Kivu province, has implemented a ban on mining companies and other businesses importing petroleum products from foreign countries, including Rwanda. He is now requiring that all fuel be sourced from local oil companies to prevent revenue loss for the province.
“Chinese mining companies and road construction firms have been refueling in Rwanda each year. This practice is now strictly forbidden; all fuel must be purchased within the province,” Governor Purusi announced at a meeting held on Sunday, September 8, at Concorde Stadium.
The governor highlighted the significant revenue leakage, noting that millions of dollars are leaving the province monthly due to fuel imports.
“Some companies import up to 90 tanker trucks of fuel, each holding 35,000 cubic meters, every month. They are required to buy their fuel from local suppliers,” Purusi emphasized.
Additionally, the provincial government has established a partnership with local oil companies to implement a new charge of 60 Congolese francs per liter of fuel. This revenue will be allocated to road construction and rehabilitation projects.
“We have agreed with the oil companies to adjust their pricing slightly, allowing us to collect 60 francs per liter. This money will be managed by the oil club, which will oversee its use for road construction,” Governor Purusi explained.
Previously, a similar scheme collected 30 francs per liter for road development in Bukavu, but transparency issues hindered the progress of these projects. The new arrangement aims to address these concerns and ensure effective use of the funds.
