Fuel Crisis Deepens as Terrorists Block Supply Routes

MALI - Economic activity across Mali has slowed sharply following a terrorist-imposed blockade on hydrocarbon imports that began in mid-September. The disruption has triggered severe fuel shortages in regional capitals including Koutiala, Nioro du Sahel, and Ségou, as well as in hundreds of rural sub-prefectures.

Vehicles of all types have been immobilized, and prolonged power outages have plunged many towns into darkness - some for an entire week. According to authorities, more than 100 tanker trucks have been burned by armed groups since the blockade began.

Although the army is providing escorts for convoys, attacks persist, discouraging transporters from resuming deliveries. The capital and border cities remain relatively stable, but national energy output has fallen drastically - from 18 hours of power per day to barely six.