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February 3, 2026Motorists will get another measure of relief at filling stations from Wednesday, 4 February 2026, after government confirmed a fresh round of fuel price cuts.
The Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources said both grades of petrol will drop by 65 cents a litre, while diesel will decrease by between 50 cents and 57 cents a litre, depending on the grade.
For many households, the biggest immediate benefit may be in transport and essential goods. Lower diesel costs can ease pressure on distribution, farming operations, and the taxi industry — although price changes in fares and deliveries are not always immediate and often depend on individual operators’ cost structures.
The department also announced changes to other energy products used by households. Illuminating paraffin at the retail level will decrease by 70 cents a litre, offering some relief to families who rely on paraffin for cooking and heating. However, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) will increase by 31 cents per kilogramme nationally, and by 36 cents in the Western Cape, which could offset some of the gains for homes and small businesses that cook with gas.
Department spokesperson Robert Maake said the latest adjustment follows shifts in both local and international market factors. A stronger South African rand against the United States dollar helped cushion prices, while average international refined product prices moved lower due to improved inventory availability — even as crude oil prices increased on average during the same period.
With budgets still tight for many families, the reduction will be welcomed — especially for commuters and businesses that depend on road transport. The department urged consumers to note that the new prices apply from Wednesday and will reflect at the pumps once the official adjustment takes effect.


