Mali | Fuel Shortage Cripples Bamako Amid JNIM Blockade

Bamako, January 12, 2026 - Since January 12, Bamako has been facing a fuel shortage that is severely disrupting economic and social activities. At many gas stations, customers are waiting up to half a day to obtain a few liters of gasoline, essential for daily commutes. The blockade imposed by JNIM terrorists continues to limit fuel supplies, despite the presence of the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) and Russian mercenaries from the Afrika Korps, tasked with securing roads and strategic convoys. Many drivers, targeted by JNIM, have stopped transporting fuel, citing lack of protection and extreme risks to their lives. They claim the army abandons them at the first exchange of fire, leaving them at the mercy of terrorists who, if they do not kill them, destroy their livelihoods.