Mahama warns Middle East tensions could trigger economic shocks for Africa

President John Dramani Mahama has voiced concern over rising hostilities involving the United States, Israel and Iran, cautioning that deepening tensions in the Middle East could carry significant economic consequences for African countries.

During a bilateral meeting with Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the State House in Arusha on March 2, 2026, President Mahama described the Middle East as the “epicentre of global oil supplies” and warned that African economies must prepare for possible external shocks.

He noted that the intensifying exchanges among the U.S., Israel and Iran, alongside reported counter attacks in parts of the Gulf, are likely to have ripple effects far beyond the region.

According to President Mahama, any surge in crude oil prices resulting from the standoff would directly affect African nations, many of which depend heavily on imported petroleum products to power their economies.

The latest escalation follows months of strained relations between Israel and Iran, largely linked to Iran’s nuclear programme and accusations of its backing for armed groups in the region.

The United States, a key ally of Israel, has supported Israeli security operations and reinforced its military presence in the Gulf, citing concerns over regional stability and the safety of international shipping routes.

Iran has, in response, accused both Israel and the United States of aggression and launched missile and drone operations targeting strategic interests.

The developments have heightened fears of a wider regional conflict, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime route through which a substantial share of the world’s oil supply is transported.

Amid the uncertainty, global crude oil prices have already begun to climb, with analysts warning that any sustained disruption could place additional strain on energy importing countries across Africa.