Ship-refuelling companies along Africa’s coastline are experiencing a surge in business as vessels increasingly avoid conflict-affected routes and divert around the Cape of Good Hope
The shift has been driven by the war involving Iran and the disruption of key shipping lanes such as the Strait of Hormuz, forcing global carriers to seek safer alternatives
Major shipping companies including Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd and CMA CGM have confirmed rerouting vessels around southern Africa, increasing journey times but creating new opportunities for fuel suppliers across the continent
This change has significantly boosted demand for bunkering services, with established operators like Monjasa reporting higher volumes, while new entrants such as Vitol and Flex Commodities expand operations
Ports such as Walvis Bay in Namibia and offshore hubs in Ghana are emerging as key refuelling points, with expectations that demand could continue rising as long as instability persists
Industry data shows diversions along the Cape route have surged, with some estimates indicating traffic increases of over 100 percent, suggesting what began as a temporary workaround is becoming a long-term operational shift
While the boom presents economic opportunities for Africa, challenges remain, including limited infrastructure, piracy risks, and fuel supply constraints linked to disruptions in Middle Eastern exports
Despite these hurdles, analysts believe Africa’s strategic location on global shipping routes, combined with growing regional trade and port investments, could cement its role as a major global bunkering hub in the years ahead
Source: TRT Afrika
