Mali is facing growing challenges in securing its hydrocarbon supply as repeated attacks by armed groups disrupt fuel deliveries and threaten the country’s energy stability.
The government has outlined new measures aimed at maintaining critical petroleum supplies in the face of mounting insecurity and economic strain.
On Friday, October 3, 2025, Prime Minister Major General Abdoulaye Maïga chaired a meeting of the Interministerial Committee for Crisis and Disaster Management (CIGCC), placing the regular supply of fuel at the centre of national concern.
The committee defined four strategic priorities: securing fuel convoys, coordinating with transport operators, protecting critical infrastructure, and strengthening public communication about the situation.
Mali imports more than 95% of its petroleum products, mainly via Senegalese and Ivorian ports, with an annual consumption estimated at 1.3 million cubic meters. However, the supply chain has been severely weakened by repeated attacks from armed groups, notably JNIM, targeting tanker trucks on major highways.
In September 2025, dozens of vehicles were destroyed along the Kayes–Bamako route, causing human casualties and serious logistical delays. Authorities have since been forced to escort fuel convoys and reorganize delivery routes.
In parallel, the General Directorate of Commerce, Consumer Affairs, and Competition has closed several gas stations for violating price caps — set at 725 CFA francs per litre for diesel and 775 CFA francs for premium gasoline.
These closures have reduced the number of active distribution points.
In major cities like Bamako, stocked stations are experiencing long queues, while others temporarily halt operations due to shortages.
The disruption extends beyond transport, affecting Mali’s broader energy sector. Around 55% of the country’s electricity comes from hydrocarbon-fuelled thermal plants, making prolonged fuel delivery delays a threat to urban power supplies.
Butane gas distribution is also at risk, raising concerns over potential domestic shortages and price spikes.
In response, the government has initiated discussions with oil sector operators to strengthen security measures, ensure continuous deliveries, and minimise economic repercussions.
The fuel supply challenge now underscores the interconnected risks to Mali’s energy stability and economic resilience in an increasingly insecure environment.
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