Bangui – In a move that briefly strained relations in Central Africa, 30,000 tonnes of diesel donated by Russia to the Central African Republic (CAR) were blocked in late January 2025 at the port of Douala by Cameroonian authorities. The explanation for the delay, as cited by the Cameroonian government, was related to international sanctions imposed on Russia due to its ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
The issue came to light when Russian state media Sputnik reported the blockade, prompting Cameroonian authorities to reconsider and allow the fuel to proceed to its destination in Bangui.
The donation of diesel, a critical lifeline for CAR’s struggling fuel supply, was announced by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak during a state visit by CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadéra to Moscow on January 15. The gift underscored Moscow’s growing influence in Africa, particularly in countries like CAR, where Russia has provided security assistance and resources through both state-backed initiatives and private military contractors such as the Wagner Group.
According to Albert Mokpeme Yaloké, the spokesperson for the Central African Presidency, Cameroonian authorities initially cited Western sanctions against Russia as the reason for the fuel’s detention.
“It’s not a trade; it’s simply a gift from the Russian Federation,” Yaloké told Radio Ndeke Luka, emphasizing that the donation should not fall under sanctions targeting commercial transactions with Russia. He expressed optimism that the issue would be resolved swiftly.
The impasse gained international attention after Sputnik, a Russian state-controlled news outlet, published details about the blockade. The report sparked criticism and questions about whether Cameroon’s decision was influenced by pressure from Western allies to enforce sanctions rigorously, even when humanitarian concerns were at stake.
Once the report gained traction, Cameroonian authorities acted quickly to release the fuel. The timing suggests that the international spotlight played a significant role in resolving the matter.
Moscow’s decision to donate fuel to CAR reflects its deepening ties with African nations, many of which view Russia as a counterbalance to Western influence. CAR, in particular, has become a key ally, relying on Russian military and logistical support to stabilize its internal conflicts.
Cameroon finds itself navigating complex geopolitical waters. As a partner to Western nations, particularly France and the United States, it is under pressure to comply with sanctions on Russia. At the same time, it must maintain cooperative relationships with its regional neighbors, including CAR.
The diesel donation is critical for CAR, where fuel shortages have exacerbated economic challenges and disrupted daily life.
