Tragedy struck Guinea’s capital, Conakry, early Monday morning with an explosion at the primary oil terminal resulting in a devastating toll. According to Jean Traore, head of civil protection, the blast claimed the lives of at least 11 individuals and left 88 others injured, heightening concerns about the direct consequences on the country’s populace.
The explosion, which rocked the Kaloum administrative district in downtown Conakry, shattered windows in nearby residences and prompted the evacuation of hundreds, reported a witness to media.
Details regarding the terminal’s damage remained uncertain. Guinea, lacking domestic oil production or refining capabilities, relies on imported refined products primarily housed in the Kaloum terminal, distributed nationwide through trucks.
Authorities are yet to ascertain the cause of the fire, emphasizing the launch of an investigation to identify responsible parties and determine the incident’s origins.
The government underscored the potential direct impact of the incident on the population, compelling precautionary measures. Civilian workers, excluding essential personnel like defense, security forces, and medical staff, were advised to remain at home. Both public and private schools, alongside the majority of gas stations, remained closed.
Amid escalating worries over fuel scarcity, citizens rushed to emergency stations in pursuit of fuel reserves. Reports emerged from Mamou, approximately 260 km from Conakry, where vehicle owners besieged gas stations in response to the concerns.
The aftermath extended beyond Conakry, with repercussions felt across the country due to the looming fuel shortage. Alpha Bah, a motorcycle taxi rider, highlighted the drastic spike in gasoline prices on the black market, rising to 20,000 Guinean francs ($2.35) per liter, a significant increase from the previous 12,000 Guinean francs.
The column of smoke and lingering flames, visible for miles, persisted into Monday afternoon after firefighters managed to subdue the blaze.
Additionally, a source affiliated with Conakry’s central prison disclosed damage caused by the explosion, situated in proximity to the oil terminal.
The incident’s impact, coupled with uncertainties surrounding the terminal’s damage and the ongoing investigation, has plunged Guinea into a state of concern and urgency over the potential ramifications on the country’s fuel supply and population.
