Summary
Militants in Mali, linked to al-Qaeda, have blocked fuel deliveries by attacking tankers on main roads, causing fuel shortages in cities, including the capital, Bamako. This blockade has led to long lines at gas stations, rising fuel prices, and disruptions to businesses and daily life. The military government is working to resolve the issue with army-escorted fuel deliveries and is in talks with the militants.
Key Facts
- Militants from al-Qaeda affiliate Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) have blocked fuel supplies to Mali by attacking tankers.
- Long lines have formed at gas stations in Mali's capital, Bamako, due to the fuel shortage.
- The military government has brought in over 300 petrol tankers under army escort from Ivory Coast.
- Fuel shortages have caused price increases and disruptions, affecting businesses and daily life.
- Mali imports its fuel by road from neighboring countries like Senegal and Ivory Coast because it is landlocked.
- The problem is made worse by power cuts in Bamako, with electricity supply reduced in some areas.
- The military government, with popular support, replaced UN and French forces with Russian mercenaries.
- The government is in talks with the militants to end the blockade, including potentially releasing captured fighters.
