The Botswana Energy Regulatory Authority (BERA) on Friday announced it raised the retail price of unleaded petrol 95 by P5.05 thebe per litre, diesel by P8.77 thebe, and illuminating paraffin by P1.5 thebe. The increase comes at a time when consumers are already under pressure, raising the likelihood of a broad based rise in prices across the economy in the coming weeks. Diesel, which is a key input in public transport, logistics and agriculture, saw the steepest adjustment, signalling immediate pressure on commuter fares and the cost of moving goods.
Operators are expected to pass on the increase to consumers, tightening already strained household budgets. BERA attributed the adjustment to sharp increases in global oil prices, driven by geopolitical instability in the Middle East. “Average Brent crude oil prices rose sharply between February 2026 and March 2026... reaching highs of US$119.50 per barrel, levels last recorded four years ago,” said the Authority headed by CEO Dr. Never Tshabang. The spike follows disruptions in key shipping routes and concerns over tanker movements, which have driven volatility in global oil markets. “International prices of Unleaded Petrol 95 rose by 59.7% diesel prices increased by 90.8% while illuminating paraffin rose by 110.9%,” BERA added.
