Madagascar has declared a two‑week nationwide state of energy emergency amid severe fuel shortages caused by the US and Israel’s war in Iran.
Its presidency, said the decision was taken following Tuesday’s cabinet meeting over fears that the situation could lead to public disorder.
The Indian Ocean island, which relies on oil to produce much of its electricity, is dependent on fuel imports from the Middle East and supplies are likely to be disrupted for some time despite the two-week ceasefire announced overnight.

Last year, persistent power and water shortages in Madagascar led to youth-led protests, which escalated to broader political unrest, resulting in a military takeover.

It is not clear exactly what measures the government intends to take but it says it now has the powers to stabilize the country’s power sector, mitigate further disruptions, manage consumption and ensure continuity of public services.

News of the state of emergency led to panic buying at some petrol stations on Wednesday with some reportedly rationing how much each customer can buy, according to local media.

 

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