Madagascar on Tuesday declared a nationwide state of energy emergency as the ongoing Middle East conflict caused major disruptions in energy supply.

The island nation reported nationwide fuel shortages, forcing its Cabinet to pursue urgent measures to restore energy supply and ensure continuity of public services.

"The declaration of a state of energy emergency allows authorities to take exceptional and urgent measures to restore energy supply and ensure continuity of public services. The decision was taken following the observation that the country is facing a deep crisis due to disruptions in energy supply across the island linked to the conflict in the Middle East," a Cabinet statement said.

Several African governments have implemented measures such as tax suspension on fuel imports in response to surging global oil prices spurred by the US-Israel war against Iran.

Closer to Madagascar, Zambia removed Value Added Tax (VAT) and suspended excise duty on petrol and diesel imports for three months, with effect from April 1, while Botswana last suspended road and fuel levies for six months to cushion consumers from rising global oil prices. (AA)