The South African government has imported 121,1 million litres of fuel to supplement a shortage in Gauteng caused by the temporary closure of the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (Natref) refinery.

The national Department of Transport said the imports are primarily intended to ensure sufficient supply to OR Tambo International Airport. At least 38 million litres of the imported fuel has been directed to the aviation sector, specifically OR Tambo International Airport, which has been most affected by the shortage.

The intervention follows a meeting between the department, the Fuel Industry Association of South Africa (FIASA), Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) and Sasol to discuss contingency plans to manage supply until the refinery resumes operations at the end of February.

FIASA said it is working alongside ACSA, Transnet and the South African Revenue Service to mitigate fuel supply risks. As part of these efforts, FIASA facilitated importation of 19 million litres for OR Tambo International Airport between January 24 and 25, followed by an additional 50 million litres between January 25 and 26. Of this latest shipment, 19 million litres was allocated to the airport and the rest was redirected to Natref.

“Through coordinated efforts with our stakeholders, we are taking decisive action to ensure fuel availability and minimise potential disruptions,” said Avhapfani Tshifularo, Chief Executive of FIASA.