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The government of Senegal has suspended all non-essential foreign travel for ministers and senior officials, warning of “extremely difficult” economic conditions as rising global oil prices place increasing pressure on the national budget.
Reuters reports that the move comes in response to escalating tensions linked to the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, which has disrupted global energy markets.
The situation has been exacerbated by Iran’s effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments, triggering a sharp rise in crude prices worldwide.
Read more: Iran says ships can transit Hormuz as Trump hints at possible thawing of tensions
Speaking at a youth event in Mbour on Friday evening, Prime Minister, Ousmane Sonko, revealed that benchmark oil prices have surged to around US$115 per barrel—nearly double the US$62 per barrel projected in the country’s budget.
“No minister in my government will leave the country unless it is for an essential mission related to the work we are currently undertaking,” Sonko said, adding that he had already cancelled planned visits to Niger, Spain, and France.
Governments across West Africa and beyond are implementing emergency measures to cushion the economic impact of the crisis, including fuel price hikes, subsidies, and the adoption of remote working arrangements.
Sonko said Senegal’s response is shaped by its existing debt burden, making it particularly vulnerable to external shocks.
He indicated that additional measures will be announced in the coming week, with the Energy and Mines Minister expected to address the nation on steps being taken to manage the situation.
As global uncertainty deepens, Senegal’s actions underscore the growing strain on developing economies grappling with volatile energy markets and geopolitical instability.
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