Mahama Warns Middle East Tensions Threaten Africa’s Economic Stability

President John Dramani Mahama has warned that escalating hostilities involving the United States, Israel, and Iran could have severe economic repercussions for African nations.

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

He expressed concern over intensifying exchanges between the U.S., Israel, and Iran, including reported counter-attacks affecting parts of the Gulf region.

According to President Mahama, rising crude oil prices driven by the tensions would directly impact African countries, many of which depend heavily on imported petroleum products to power their economies.

The current escalation follows months of heightened strain between Israel and Iran, largely centred on Iran’s nuclear programme and its alleged backing of armed groups across the region.

The United States, a key ally of Israel, has reinforced its support for Israeli security operations and strengthened its military presence in the Gulf, citing the need to safeguard regional stability and international shipping routes.

Iran has accused both Israel and the United States of aggression and has responded with missile and drone operations targeting strategic interests.

The deepening crisis has heightened fears of a wider regional conflict, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime corridor through which a substantial share of the world’s oil supply passes.

Global crude oil prices have already begun trending upward amid the uncertainty, with analysts cautioning that prolonged disruption could place additional strain on energy-importing nations, including many across Africa.