Botswana has emulated Namibia by suspending three fuel levies for six months to cushion consumers from the rising global oil prices.
The Botswana Energy Regulatory Authority (BERA) has suspended the fuel levy, the security supply levy, and the road levy, with the savings redirected to absorb the impact of higher international oil prices.
According to the BERA's Chief Executive Officer, Never Tshabang, the steps are intended to maintain a steady supply as global petroleum prices continue to climb.
"Although the suspension would not have an immediate impact on the current pump price, the decision taken by the government is very crucial. The decision will ensure that prices are manageable. We are emulating what Namibia has also done after realising it is working for its consumers."
Late last month, the government approved a 50% reduction in fuel levies for three months beginning this month to cushion consumers from rising global oil prices.
The geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have triggered high price volatility of petroleum products across the globe.