Motorists formed long queues outside fuel stations in Mali’s capital, Bamako, on Wednesday amid growing fears of a fuel shortage.
- Fuel shortages in Bamako, Mali, have led to long queues at gas stations.
- Al-Qaeda-linked insurgents imposed a blockade last month, affecting fuel imports.
- Major fuel providers in the capital have run out of stock, leading to disruptions.
- A convoy from Ivory Coast delivered fuel, partially relieving the shortage.
Motorists formed long queues outside fuel stations in Mali’s capital, Bamako, on Wednesday amid growing fears of a fuel shortage.
The rush followed several days of station closures after al-Qaeda-linked insurgents imposed a blockade on fuel imports last month.
Many stations have either shut down entirely or are only dispensing diesel, as militant groups step up pressure on Mali’s military-led government, according to Reuters.
Analysts say the blockade is aimed at choking the landlocked nation’s economic lifeline.
In recent days, major fuel stations operated by Shell, TotalEnergies, and Star in central Bamako have run out of fuel, leaving motorists scrambling for supplies.
Authorities announced late Tuesday that a convoy of fuel tankers had arrived from neighbouring Ivory Coast, bringing some relief. By Wednesday, several stations in the capital had reopened.
DON’T MISS THIS: Africa’s refining capacity expands as Uganda’s $4 billion oil refinery nears 2030 start
Still, shortages persisted elsewhere. Videos circulating on social media showed long lines of vehicles in cities including Segou, Mopti, and San.
Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maïga has convened a disaster management committee to secure the movement of fuel convoys, state television reported last week.
Security turmoil
The crisis stems from a worsening security situation. Since 2012, Mali has struggled to contain the spread of violence despite breaking ties with France and turning to Russia’s Wagner Group for support.
The current military junta, which came to power through coups in 2020 and 2021, had promised to restore order, but insurgent attacks have continued.
In mid-September, militants ambushed a convoy of more than 100 vehicles under military escort, destroying at least 40 fuel tankers.
