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Libya’s National Oil Company Reports Three New Oil And Gas Discoveries
Libya’s National Oil Corporation has announced a trio of new hydrocarbon discoveries with Eni, Repsol, and Sonatrach, in a sign that exploration activity is gaining traction again across some of the country’s most important producing regions.
The highest-profile result came offshore western Libya, where NOC and Eni North Africa drilled the J1-4/16 exploration well in Block D and confirmed a new gas discovery around 95 kilometers from shore.
The well reached a total depth of 10,458 feet, with tests on the Metlawi reservoir delivering 14 million cubic feet per day in one test and 24 MMcf/d in a second test under a wider choke.
The discovery also marks the completion of the ninth and final contractual exploration obligation under Contract 4/16, originally signed in June 2008.
Onshore, NOC and Repsol Libya Branch reported a new oil discovery in Contract Area 131/130 in the Murzuq Basin, around 800 kilometers south of Tripoli.
The J1-4/130 exploratory well was drilled to 4,325 feet and is producing an average of 763 barrels per day from the Mummiyat Formation.
The well is the fifth completed under the eight-well commitment set out in the partners’ 2008 Exploration and Production Sharing Agreement.
A third announcement came from the Ghadames Basin, where NOC and Sonatrach’s Libyan unit SIPEX disclosed a combined oil and gas discovery near the Wafa field.
The A1-69/02 exploration well, drilled to 8,440 feet, is flowing 13 million cubic feet of gas per day alongside 327 barrels per day of condensate from the Awynat Wanin and Awyn Kaza formations. That well is the sixth drilled out of eight planned under the EPSA signed in May 2008.
The immediate takeaway is that Libya is seeing exploration wins across multiple basins and operators, with both greenfield potential and follow-up drilling still delivering commercial volumes.
Offshore gas is particularly significant because Libya is looking to strengthen supply to its domestic market while maintaining its position as a Mediterranean energy supplier.
New gas volumes also fit a broader regional trend in North Africa, where producers are prioritizing faster-cycle gas developments amid persistent demand from Europe and tighter regional energy balances.
The Murzuq and Ghadames finds matter for a different reason. They reinforce the continued prospectivity of Libya’s established onshore basins, where even relatively modest wells can support near-term production growth if infrastructure and security conditions allow.
The Sonatrach discovery’s proximity to Wafa could prove especially relevant if existing regional infrastructure offers a path to commercialization.
Together, the three announcements suggest that long-dormant contractual acreage awarded in the late 2000s is still yielding results, even after years of political fragmentation and stop-start investment. For Libya, that is an encouraging signal as it tries to attract more upstream capital and arrest output volatility.
Ghana’s Crude Oil Output Declines To 37.3 Million Barrels In 2025
Ghana’s crude oil output has declined drastically for the sixth consecutive year, from 2019 to 2025, sparking concern among industry watchers about the sustainability of the country’s petroleum sector and its contribution to national revenue.
The West African nation’s total crude oil output fell to 37.3 million barrels in 2025, down from about 48.24 million barrels in 2024. In 2019, the country’s total crude oil output stood at 71.44 million barrels.
However, output has since dropped consistently over the past six years to 37.3 million barrels in 2025, representing an average annual decline of about nine percent.
Ghana has three oil-producing fields, and per the 2025 report by the Public Interest and Accountability Committee (PIAC)—an independent statutory body established under the Petroleum Revenue Management Act, 2011 (Act 815)—the Jubilee Field produced 22,211,948 barrels, the SGN Field produced 9,256,418 barrels, and the TEN Field produced 5,834,432 barrels, bringing the total to 37,302,798 barrels.
The Jubilee Field experienced the most significant decline, dropping 30.3% from 31,849,046 barrels in 2024 to 22,211,948 barrels in 2025. TEN Field output fell by 14%, from 6,784,440 barrels to 5,834,432 barrels, while SGN Field production declined by 3.6%, from 9,606,544 barrels to 9,256,418 barrels over the same period. Daily average production figures stood at 63,462 barrels for Jubilee, 16,206 barrels for TEN, and 25,360 barrels for SGN.
The report attributed the decline to natural field depletion, maintenance work on facilities, and operational disruptions, including activities at the West African Pipeline Company (WAPCo), highlighting the operational and structural challenges facing Ghana’s oil sector.
Gas production also recorded a reduction, with total output falling to 273,780 million standard cubic feet (MMSCF) in 2025 from 280,511 MMSCF in 2024—a 2.4% decrease—further illustrating the downward pressure on the country’s energy resources.
Speaking at the launch of the report in Accra on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, PIAC Chairperson Richard Ellimah emphasised the severity of the decline, stating: “Production has dropped from a high of 71.44 million barrels in 2019 to 37.3 million barrels in 2025, representing a compounded annual average decline of 9%. This confirms the widely held view that Ghana’s oil fields have peaked and are on a downward spiral.”
In response to the declining trend, PIAC has urged the government to develop a comprehensive framework to attract investment into existing oil fields, improve regulatory and fiscal policies, and enhance data acquisition in new basins to stabilise production and reverse the decline.
“Strategic investment, operational efficiency, and regulatory oversight must be prioritised to ensure the sector remains a key driver of Ghana’s economy,” Mr. Ellimah said.
He warned that sustained reductions in crude output could negatively impact government revenue, foreign exchange inflows, and the country’s broader energy security.
Ghana: COMAC Launches Safety Week 2026 To Strengthen Downstream Sector Standards
The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) on Tuesday opened a four-day Safety Week 2026 at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) in Accra.
The initiative aims to enhance collaboration and reinforce health, safety, security, and environmental (HSSE) standards across Ghana’s downstream petroleum sector.
The event brought together regulators, industry leaders, and key stakeholders under the theme, “Manage the Risk Before It Becomes an Incident.”
In a welcome address, COMAC Board Chairman, Mr Gabriel Kumi, underscored the importance of a unified vision and collective accountability in advancing safety, while acknowledging the NPA’s leadership in coordinating sector-wide initiatives.
He urged participants to bring the full weight of their experience, expertise, and institutional responsibility to bear on the discussions ahead.
“Let us not leave this conference merely as observers. Let us leave as agents of change, unequivocal in our commitment to building an industry in which every worker returns home safely and every community in which we operate is better protected,” he charged.
Dr Riverson Oppong, Chief Executive Officer of COMAC, commended the NPA for strengthening regulatory compliance, improving petroleum supply resilience, and driving operational efficiency.
He urged participants to collaborate closely under the Authority’s guidance to elevate industry performance and safety standards.
Delivering his remarks, the Chief Executive of the NPA, Mr Godwin Kudzo Tameklo, highlighted key safety concerns within the sector, particularly the increasing incidence of fuel tanker accidents and the dangerous practice of fuel siphoning at accident scenes.
He noted that the Authority has intensified its public safety campaigns and is working closely with the DVLA and other stakeholders, including tanker driver unions, tanker owners, and the Ghana National Fire Service, to address the challenge of inexperienced tanker drivers and enhance road safety.
He reaffirmed the NPA’s commitment to proactive safety interventions to safeguard lives, infrastructure, and operational continuity, especially amid global supply uncertainties.
In a keynote address, the Minister of Energy commended the NPA’s leadership and called for the integration of robust safety practices into daily operations, as well as increased public awareness to promote a resilient and accountable downstream petroleum sector.
Additional presentations from the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors (CBOD), and the Department of Factory Inspectorate (DFI) emphasised regulatory compliance, preventive systems, and sustained collaboration.
The opening day also featured a practical fire safety demonstration and a panel discussion on building a proactive safety culture.
The NPA’s Director of Risk, Mr Joseph Awen Awan, stressed the need to address technical capacity gaps, noting that effective safety management depends on equipping personnel with the requisite expertise to anticipate and mitigate risks.
Safety Week 2026 continues with a series of engagements focused on strengthening industry-wide commitment to safety excellence.
Tanzania: Samia Cuts Convoy, Orders Officials To Follow By Bus Due To Rising Fuel Costs
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan on Wednesday ordered government officials to travel in a single bus during official trips to reduce fuel consumption, amid shortages caused by the Middle East war.
Fuel prices in the East African nation have surged by about one-third since March, the country’s energy regulator said last week.
Speaking at a swearing-in ceremony for officials on Wednesday, Hassan said that during her official trips, only her core convoy—including her escort, police, and a backup vehicle—would remain in the motorcade.
Hassan’s presidential entourage normally comprises more than 30 vehicles, including luxury SUVs and police outriders, often bringing traffic to a standstill.
“From now on, wherever I go, all officials will travel together in one bus to cut fuel consumption,” Hassan said.
The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world’s oil and gas normally passes, has disrupted fuel supply and triggered a significant rise in global prices, forcing many nations to ration fuel use.
Oil Prices Plummet Below $100 Per Barrel On Middle East Ceasefire Deal
Oil prices declined sharply below $100 per barrel on April 8 after US President Donald Trump announced a provisional two-week ceasefire agreement with Iran, contingent on the immediate and secure reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
As of 6 p.m. West Africa Time, Brent crude had fallen to $95.98 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) dropped to $95.66 per barrel, reflecting easing supply concerns.
The announcement came just ahead of a US deadline for Tehran to restore navigation through the Strait—through which roughly 20% of global oil supply flows—or risk potential strikes on its civilian infrastructure.
Trump described the development as a “double-sided ceasefire” in a social media post, marking a sharp shift in tone after earlier warnings of severe escalation.
Iran signalled conditional acceptance of the proposal, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stating that Tehran would suspend its operations if attacks against it ceased. He added that safe passage through the Strait could be ensured for two weeks in coordination with Iranian armed forces.
The development has temporarily eased market concerns over a major supply disruption, although uncertainty remains over the durability of the agreement.
In recent weeks, oil prices had climbed sharply—posting one of the steepest monthly gains on record amid fears of supply disruptions linked to Middle East tensions—before reversing on renewed diplomatic signals.
Ghana: COMAC To Set Up $470,000 Fund To Buy UGMC Medical Van
The Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) has announced plans to establish a fund to mobilise resources for the purchase of a medical van for the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), aimed at promoting healthcare delivery in rural areas as part of its corporate social responsibility.
Chief Executive Officer of COMAC and Industry Coordinator, Dr Riverson Oppong, made the announcement at the opening of COMAC Safety Week in Accra.
He told this portal that COMAC will soon launch the fund, with an initial target of about $470,000.
He expressed optimism that the fund would go a long way in supporting UGMC to enhance healthcare delivery in rural communities.
Touching on the Safety Week event, Dr Oppong stressed that safety must not be seen as a periodic obligation or merely a regulatory requirement. Rather, he said it must be embedded in the way organisations lead, operate, and plan for the future.
“When safety is upheld, we protect lives, preserve assets, safeguard the environment, and strengthen public confidence in our industry,” he stated.
He said the Safety Week provides members with a valuable opportunity to deepen collaboration among industry players, regulators, emergency responders, and policymakers, all united by a shared responsibility to promote a safer and more resilient downstream petroleum sector.
ExxonMobil Signals $2.9B Q1 Earnings Bump On Higher Oil Prices
U.S. Oil & Gas giant ExxonMobil (NYSE:XOM) has signaled that surging oil and gas prices triggered by the conflict with Iran could increase its first-quarter upstream earnings by up to $2.9 billion, with the oil price boost expected to outweigh production disruptions in the Middle East.
Exxon estimates that disruptions to its assets in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar will lower its global oil-equivalent production by 6% in the first quarter compared to Q4 2025, but higher commodity prices are projected to provide a profit lift between $2.1 billion and $2.9 billion compared to the previous quarter.
Attacks in Qatar impacted two LNG trains, which represented roughly 3% of Exxon’s 2025 upstream production.
Exxon is scheduled to report its full Q1 2026 results on May 1, 2026.
Exxon has announced that downstream earnings could face a temporary reduction of $3.3 billion to $5.3 billion, primarily due to “unusually large, negative timing effects” related to derivatives and shipping.
The company also expects to record a one-time impairment of $600 million to $800 million due to war-related shipping disruptions.
However, Exxon CFO Neil Hansen has stated that these effects are temporary, and profits will “unwind” and transform into material gains in later quarters once physical shipments reach customers.
Meanwhile, Exxon could also benefit from non-fossil fuel tailwinds. UBS has reiterated its Buy rating and $171 price target for ExxonMobil (XOM), driven by anticipated profit gains from a global helium shortage.
According to the Wall Street analyst, the disruption of Middle Eastern supply positions enables Exxon to gain from higher prices and increased demand for its secure, non-Qatari helium supply after military strikes on Qatar’s Ras Laffan complex in March 2026 sidelined approximately 31% of global helium production.
The closure of the Strait to Western commercial shipping has effectively cut off Middle Eastern helium exports, which must be transported in specialized cryogenic ISO containers by sea.
Exxon’s LaBarge, Wyoming, facility is seen as being critical to meeting global demand for high-tech industries, including semiconductors and medical imaging.
On Wednesday, a tentative and highly fragile U.S.-Iran ceasefire deal saw Brent crude plunge to $92/barrel and reports emerge of two vessels braving the Strait of Hormuz in a test-case for a sustainable cessation of hostilities that traders will likely be eyeing with a fair amount of skepticism.
Iran Agrees To Reopen Strait Of Hormuz Amid Temporary Ceasefire Deal
Iran has agreed to allow the reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz for a limited period, following a decision by the United States to suspend attacks on the country’s power infrastructure on Tuesday.
The breakthrough comes after Donald Trump announced a two-week suspension of planned U.S. military action against Iran, contingent on the immediate reopening of the strait. The temporary truce is being described by officials as a “double-sided ceasefire,” requiring simultaneous compliance from all parties.
Under the arrangement, Iran will coordinate maritime traffic through its armed forces to ensure safe navigation, while the U.S. has indicated it may assist in managing congestion caused by weeks of disrupted shipping.
Reacting to the news, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, said Tehran would permit safe passage through the critical waterway for two weeks. The announcement forms part of a broader de-escalation arrangement involving the United States and Israel, following intense diplomatic efforts led by regional mediators.
According to Araghchi, Iran is also prepared to “suspend defensive operations” within the same timeframe, provided that opposing forces halt their strikes.
The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most vital shipping routes, handling roughly 20 percent of global oil exports. Its disruption in recent weeks had triggered sharp increases in oil prices and heightened fears of a prolonged global energy crisis.
Tensions had escalated after Iran imposed restrictions on vessels linked to countries it accused of participating in military aggression, particularly the United States and Israel. Tehran maintained that the measures were defensive and targeted, rather than a full closure of the waterway.
The standoff led to a backlog of oil tankers and significant disruptions to global energy supply chains, with millions of barrels of crude stranded in the region awaiting clearance.
The agreement follows last-minute mediation efforts involving Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey, which helped avert a broader military escalation.
Global markets responded swiftly to the announcement, with oil prices falling and investor confidence improving amid hopes that the temporary arrangement could pave the way for a longer-term resolution.
Despite the breakthrough, Iranian officials have cautioned that the pause is conditional and does not represent a permanent end to the conflict. Tehran has warned it will resume defensive actions if attacks recommence.
Negotiations are expected to continue in the coming days, as both sides explore the possibility of a more durable ceasefire agreement.
Kenya: Gov’t Orders Firm Linked To Substandard Petrol Imports To Withdraw Invoices, Export Fuel
The Kenyan government has ordered One Petroleum Ltd, the company at the centre of a substandard petroleum importation scandal that resulted in the arrest and resignation of three senior government officials, to withdraw its invoices and export the product out of the country, stating that the shipment posed a risk to fuel supply stability and would have significantly increased pump prices.
Mr Mohamed Liban, Principal Secretary for the State Department for Petroleum; Mr Joe Sang, Managing Director of KPC; and Mr Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria, Director-General of the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), resigned after they were arrested last Thursday for breaching procurement procedures in the importation of substandard petroleum products into the country.
A statement issued by the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum on Tuesday, April 7, said Kenya entered into master framework agreements on March 10, 2023, for the supply of super petrol, diesel, and jet fuel/kerosene under a government-to-government (G-to-G) arrangement with Aramco Trading, Fujairah FZE, ADNOC Global Trading Limited, and Emirates National Oil Company (Singapore) Private Limited, anchored in the Petroleum (Importation) Regulations, 2023.
The ministry said the arrangement has supported the steady supply of refined products locally and regionally and helped protect foreign exchange stability. It added that the framework has also enhanced price stability and the integrity of product quality along the supply chain.
However, it said a 60,000-metric-tonne consignment of super petrol was recently imported into the country “in contravention of the procedures” set out under the G-to-G contractual framework with international suppliers.
The ministry said the shipment was priced at Ksh198,000 per metric tonne, compared to Ksh140,000 per metric tonne under the G-to-G arrangement—an increase of Ksh58,000 per metric tonne—which it said would have resulted in an approximate rise of Ksh14 per litre in pump prices on that consignment alone.
“Consequently, the Government, through the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, and in addition to the measures already undertaken, has now directed that,” the statement read, before outlining actions to be taken.
The ministry said One Petroleum Ltd, which it identified as the importer that invoiced oil marketing companies, was directed to immediately withdraw all invoices and issue credit notes.
It further directed that oil marketing companies should neither pay the invoices nor uplift the product from the consignment, and that One Petroleum should export the product out of Kenya as soon as possible.
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) was also directed to exclude the product from the monthly computation of petroleum product costs.
The government said it would remain vigilant to ensure that no individual, company, or stakeholder engages in artificial shortages or unjustified price increases, adding that the public will continue to be updated on fuel prices in the usual manner.
Ghana: Gov’t To Roll Out Measures To Cushion Fuel Consumers Soon — Energy Minister
Ghana’s Minister for Energy and Green Transition, Dr. John Abdulai Jinapor, has stated that the government will soon announce measures to cushion fuel consumers while ensuring that the economic gains achieved so far are sustained and does not create long-term economic instability.
According to the Minister, the government has taken note of concerns raised by Ghanaians over the rising cost of fuel and is considering all available options to introduce measures and policies that will ease the burden.
Dr John Abdulai Jinapor gave the assurance at the opening of a three-day Safety Week organised by the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) in Accra, under the theme: “Manage the Risk Before It Becomes an Incident.”
“Some have suggested removing taxes on petroleum products. While that may sound appealing, it comes at a cost—other sectors such as roads and health would have to make sacrifices,” he stated. Dr. Jinapor outlined a three-pronged approach guiding government policy: ensuring product availability, maintaining fair pricing, and upholding fiscal discipline. He emphasized that maintaining supply remains the top priority, noting that some countries are grappling with fuel shortages severe enough to disrupt schools and workplaces. Despite the ongoing Middle East tensions, which have created fuel shortages in some countries and driven up fuel prices, Ghana, he said, has so far remained resilient due to coordinated efforts between the Ministry, regulators, and industry players. On pricing, the Minister acknowledged the burden on consumers but warned that poorly structured interventions—such as unsustainable tax cuts—could worsen the situation over time. “I would rather maintain stable inflation without unsustainable subsidies than offer short-term relief that leads to long-term hardship,” he said. He stressed that the government remains committed to reviewing petroleum taxes and levies but will proceed cautiously to avoid decisions that could destabilize the broader economy. “That is prudent economic management,” he added. Dr. Jinapor reaffirmed the government’s commitment to balancing consumer protection with economic sustainability, assuring stakeholders that ongoing consultations with the Finance Ministry and industry players would inform future policy decisions.Ghana: NPA Plans Tougher Regulations To Curb Fuel Tanker Accidents
The Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, Esq., has expressed concern over the increasing number of road accidents involving Bulk Road Vehicles (BRVs) across the country.
BRVs, popularly known as fuel tanker trucks, are used for transporting and distributing fuel nationwide.
Addressing petroleum sector stakeholders during the 2026 Safety Week organized by the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) in Accra, under the theme “Manage the Risk Before it becomes an Incident,” the NPA boss decried the recent spate of deadly road accidents caused by tanker drivers.
“If this is not a concern to any of us here, then I don’t know what else is. You may just be an innocent road user caught up in these incidents,” he said.
Mr. Tameklo highlighted a recent near-tragic crash in the Nsawam area, where a tanker veered dangerously close to a bus carrying 50 passengers, narrowly averting disaster.
Clearly worried about the situation, Mr. Tameklo said his outfit had begun discussions with the Tanker Drivers Union, Tanker Owners Union, and the Drivers and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to identify the root causes of these accidents.
“Is it a case of inexperienced tanker drivers? Is it a case where owners of these tankers prefer cheap labour? Or is it that we are simply allowing just anyone to drive?” Mr. Tameklo quizzed.
He recalled that during a meeting with tanker owners, he reminded them that a single tanker costs nearly $200,000 and therefore must not be entrusted to inexperienced drivers.
“I told the Tanker Owners Union that it costs almost two hundred thousand dollars to buy one tanker. So why would you want to put that tanker in the hands of an inexperienced driver?
“That is your investment, and you have a responsibility to ensure that whoever you entrust with your tanker has the requisite experience,” he said.
According to him, petroleum products are highly inflammable. As a regulator, he has informed stakeholders that going forward, key performance indicators (KPIs) and strict checklists will be required before any new tanker is registered.
Mr. Tameklo urged the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) to collaborate with the Authority to enforce stricter regulations to rein in rogue operators.
DO I Michael Korsah, Director of Fire Safety at the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), attributed the recent tanker accidents to several factors, particularly driver fatigue and carelessness.
He emphasized that such accidents are preventable and suggested that truck owners must ensure drivers take regular breaks, avoid careless driving, and get adequate rest during journeys.
He stressed that safety should not just be a slogan but a way of life.
He further advised individuals and organizations to inculcate safety practices in all aspects of daily life.
“Is it a case of inexperienced tanker drivers? Is it a case where owners of these tankers prefer cheap labour? Or is it that we are simply allowing just anyone to drive?” Mr. Tameklo quizzed.
He recalled that during a meeting with tanker owners, he reminded them that a single tanker costs nearly $200,000 and therefore must not be entrusted to inexperienced drivers.
“I told the Tanker Owners Union that it costs almost two hundred thousand dollars to buy one tanker. So why would you want to put that tanker in the hands of an inexperienced driver?
“That is your investment, and you have a responsibility to ensure that whoever you entrust with your tanker has the requisite experience,” he said.
According to him, petroleum products are highly inflammable. As a regulator, he has informed stakeholders that going forward, key performance indicators (KPIs) and strict checklists will be required before any new tanker is registered.
Mr. Tameklo urged the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC) to collaborate with the Authority to enforce stricter regulations to rein in rogue operators.
DO I Michael Korsah, Director of Fire Safety at the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), attributed the recent tanker accidents to several factors, particularly driver fatigue and carelessness.
He emphasized that such accidents are preventable and suggested that truck owners must ensure drivers take regular breaks, avoid careless driving, and get adequate rest during journeys.
He stressed that safety should not just be a slogan but a way of life.
He further advised individuals and organizations to inculcate safety practices in all aspects of daily life.
Iran Plans Human Chains At Power Plants As Trump’s Strike Deadline Looms
An Iranian government official has called on citizens—particularly young people—to gather around the country’s power plants at a fixed hour on Tuesday, April 7, Indiatimes.com reported.
In a video broadcast on state television, Alireza Rahimi, secretary of Iran’s Supreme Council of Youth and Adolescents, urged “young people, athletes, artists, students, and university professors” to assemble at 2 p.m. around key energy infrastructure.
He described the facilities as “national assets” belonging to the future of Iran and called for unity “regardless of political viewpoint.”
His appeal comes amid escalating tensions, with Trump warning that Iran’s power plants and bridges could be destroyed within hours if Tehran fails to meet his demands by a self-imposed deadline later on Tuesday.
Rahimi’s call echoes tactics previously used by Iran during periods of heightened confrontation with Western powers. Human chains—effectively civilian shields—have been formed in the past around sensitive sites, including nuclear facilities, in a bid to complicate or discourage military strikes.
Such methods have historical precedent beyond Iran. During the 1991 Gulf War, Saddam Hussein’s regime deployed civilians, including foreign nationals, near potential targets to deter US-led attacks.
Analysts say the re-emergence of such tactics signals the level of concern within Tehran over the immediacy of Washington’s threats.
The timing—“Tuesday at 2 p.m.”—appears designed to precede Trump’s deadline, creating a visible civilian presence at potential targets before any military action could begin.
Speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump issued one of his starkest warnings yet, saying Iran’s infrastructure could be “taken out in one night.”
“Every power plant in Iran will be out of business, burning, exploding,” he said, adding that bridges would also face “complete demolition” within a matter of hours if Iran does not comply with US demands, including reopening the Strait of Hormuz to unrestricted oil traffic.
He dismissed concerns that such strikes could constitute war crimes, arguing that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons was a greater imperative.
The Gambia Cuts Fuel Prices With $4.30 Million Subsidy Amid Global Price Surge
The Government of The Gambia has announced a subsidy of D316,146,722.52 (approximately $4.30million) for fuel, thereby reducing pump prices for the month of April.
Fuel prices have risen sharply across many economies due to the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Without the subsidy, a litre of petrol would have sold at D101.29, while diesel would have cost D124.72 per litre.
However, the government has provided a subsidy of D3.29 per litre on petrol and D29.72 per litre on diesel.
This intervention has reduced the price of petrol to D98.00 per litre and diesel to D95.00 per litre.
In a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, it was indicated that the subsidy reflects the government’s commitment to supporting its citizens during this challenging time.
The statement added that the government, through the Ministry of Petroleum, Energy and Mines, will continue to work closely with Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and other stakeholders to ensure a steady supply of fuel and maintain responsible pricing.
It further noted that global developments will be closely monitored, and additional measures will be taken as necessary to protect consumers while ensuring fuel availability.
Kenya: EPRA Appoints Joseph Oketch As New Acting Director-General
Kenya’s Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has appointed Dr Joseph Oketch as its Acting Director-General following the resignation of Director-General Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria.
In a statement issued on Sunday, April 5, and signed by Board Chairperson Adan Haji Ali, the authority said its board received Bargoria’s resignation on Saturday afternoon and thanked him for what it described as dedicated service, wishing him well in his future endeavours.
The authority said the appointment of Oketch was made in view of EPRA’s crucial and strategic mandate as Kenya’s energy sector regulator, including setting and reviewing electricity and petroleum tariffs, licensing industry players, enforcing safety and quality standards, and protecting consumers.
EPRA noted that Oketch currently heads the Electricity and Renewable Energy Directorate, where he oversees the formulation, review, and monitoring of regulations, standards, and codes for the electrical and renewable energy sub-sectors.
According to the board, Oketch has over 25 years of experience in the energy sector and previously served in senior roles at Kenya Power and the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) before joining EPRA about 10 years ago.
His academic qualifications include a BSc in Electrical Engineering (University of Nairobi), an MBA in Strategic Management (Kenyatta University), a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Planning and Management (University of Nairobi), and a PhD in Strategic Management (Kenyatta University).
EPRA said he is a member of the Institute of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) and the Kenya Institute of Management (KIM), and is a registered professional engineer with the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK).
The board expressed confidence that Oketch would “effectively steer the Authority” in his acting capacity and assured stakeholders of the regulator’s stability.
“We, importantly, assure the country and stakeholders of the stability of the Authority and that it remains steadfast in effectively and sustainably regulating the energy sector,” the statement said.