Windhoek:Petrol prices have increased five times since April, with commuters paying N$7.00 more per litre, a 36% rise compared to earlier this year. The upcoming fuel price review at the end of this month is a critical event for many who travel daily between Osona, Okahandja, and Windhoek.
According to Namibia Press Agency, Charlotte Green, an accounts manager commuting between Osona and Windhoek for six years, spends between N$1 800 and N$1 900 on a full tank of petrol, which lasts her about a week. She fills up at least four times a month, significantly impacting her budget.
Currently, petrol in Walvis Bay is priced at N$26.58 per litre following a N$1.50 increase on October 7, 2026, with diesel (50ppm) costing N$27.86. Inland prices are higher due to transport differentials. The government had temporarily reduced fuel levies from April to July to ease the financial burden, but reinstated them in August. The Energy Ministry noted that without such measures, petrol prices could have reached N$28.48.
The Namibia Statistics Agency reported that transport inflation was at 14.9% in September, with fuel inflation at 30.4%, directly affecting commuters. Interviews with Green, Namwater Centre Manager Elten Cloete, and ride-sharer Baronice Gawanas revealed the significant financial strain of commuting from Osona.
For those without vehicles, the commute involves a 05h00 bus from Osona costing N$500 weekly, often requiring additional taxi rides. Private drivers offer weekly fees ranging from N$400 to N$700. Regular fares can reach N$700 for Osona commuters and N$900 from Okahandja over five days, excluding additional taxi expenses.
Drivers like Cloete, who travels between Windhoek and Okahandja, spend about N$2 200 on diesel for a full tank lasting five days. The costs of car maintenance, accidents, and fuel consumption add to the financial burden. Many commuters carpool to mitigate expenses, sharing driving duties and reducing individual fuel costs.
Despite the challenges, transport costs remain a priority, with other expenses adjusted accordingly. The upcoming fuel price review is crucial for commuters like Green, Cloete, and Gawanas, as it will determine further financial adjustments. Nonetheless, work remains essential, and the commute continues to be a significant part of their daily lives.