Africa faces oil supply crisis amid Iran war disruptions

The ongoing war in Iran has led to significant energy disruptions in Africa, with countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Zambia reporting oil and gas shortages. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route, is currently closed, leaving much of Africa's oil supply stranded on tankers. Nigeria, home to Africa's largest oil refinery, is operating at maximum capacity but is unable to meet the continent's demands due to years of underinvestment in energy infrastructure.

This situation exposes the vulnerability of African nations that heavily depend on Middle Eastern oil and gas imports. As they scramble to secure alternative supplies, countries with more diversified energy sources may gain leverage in negotiations. The crisis could prompt African governments to reassess their energy strategies and seek investments in local production capabilities, potentially reshaping the continent's energy landscape.

What to watch: The response of African governments in the coming weeks as they seek to mitigate the impact of the oil supply crisis.