The Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy has issued a clarification regarding temporary measures introduced to prevent fuel hoarding and panic buying, following public concern over restrictions affecting the purchase of fuel in drums and jerry cans.

In a media statement issued last week, the ministry said the measures were introduced to address artificial fuel shortages and ensure the security of fuel supply across the country. According to the ministry, Government is aware that many farmers, tourism operators, contractors, businesses, and private citizens regularly purchase fuel in bulk for legitimate operational purposes and not for hoarding.

The ministry acknowledged that not all individuals and businesses requiring bulk fuel are in possession of consumer installation certificates. It has therefore instructed all fuel retail outlets and resellers to apply discretion when dealing with customers purchasing fuel in drums or petroleum jerry cans. Fuel station operators have been directed to request satisfactory explanations from customers and assess whether the fuel is intended for genuine farming, business, tourism, or other operational activities rather than panic buying or stockpiling.

The ministry further called on licensed fuel wholesalers and retailers to assist in controlling panic buying by educating customers about the purpose of the temporary directives, which will remain in effect for the next three months. According to the statement, fuel marketing managers at service stations countrywide are expected to identify legitimate customers by requesting explanations or proof of activities where necessary.

The ministry said the measures are intended to ensure that Namibians who genuinely require bulk fuel for operations and essential activities are not unfairly affected while authorities work to prevent artificial shortages in the market. The clarification follows growing public concern after reports emerged of restrictions on the filling of fuel drums and containers at some service stations across the country.

By Eileen van der Schyff