By Domingo Dargbeh
The Liberia Petroleum Retailers Union (LIPRU) recently held its first annual convention.
The event was intended to bolster collaboration and address persistent challenges in the petroleum retail sector.
Held under the theme: “Strengthening Unity and Compliance in the Petroleum Sector,” attracted a diverse group of participants, including petroleum retailers, industry stakeholders, and government representatives.
The discussions centered on pressing topics such as fuel distribution, pricing and operational hardships faced by retailers.
LIPRU Managing Director Prince Tamba, expressed gratitude to government for making the price of petroleum products ‘stable.’
Tamba called for greater empowerment for members of the Union.
He spoke of a deeper concern with the lack of support from government to ensure a stable and accessible petroleum market.
The Board Chair, Roberts Gboluma, urged the members to remain vibrant, and contribute positively to society.
Liberia National Fire Service Deputy Director for Operations, Kessely Sumo, said the importance of compliance with safety regulations among petroleum retailers.
His comments introduced a sense of urgency surrounding regulatory adherence, suggesting that without proper compliance, the safety of both retailers and consumers could be at risk.
Sumo’s declaration of upcoming awareness campaigns and potential enforcement actions underlined the necessity for immediate action in the industry.
While convention organizers hailed the event as a step towards fostering dialogue, and improving service delivery, the underlying sentiment among participants reflects a broader concern about government’s role to ensure a stable petroleum market.
As Liberia grapples with fuel distribution, and pricing issues, the first annual convention of LIPRU serves as a reminder that unity and compliance are essential; so too is government accountability.