Malawi fuel crisis nearing end: Mafuta Ngambwi Ngambwi akubwera -Jean Mathanga

Malawi’s fuel crisis could soon be over following the government’s procurement of 23.6 million litres of fuel, with authorities saying some supplies have already started reaching filling stations.

The development comes as the shortage enters its fourth week, leaving motorists spending hours in queues, with some enduring sleepless nights in the hope of getting petrol or diesel.

The crisis has disrupted transport and other business activities, putting further pressure on Malawians already struggling with the high cost of living.

Energy Minister Jean Mathanga told local media on Saturday that 11.6 million litres of the procured fuel were in transit, while some supplies had already reached filling stations.

“While acknowledging that this problem has affected Malawians and government operations, I want to assure them that the problem will soon be history. We have purchased 23.6 million litres of fuel, and 11.6 million litres are in transit, while some supplies have already started arriving at filling stations,” said Mathanga.

He said fuel had reached several areas in Mzuzu, while diesel was being distributed in Lilongwe. Petrol was expected at more filling stations by the end of Sunday, although supplies to Blantyre had been delayed.

The government has attributed the shortage to a lack of foreign exchange, which has affected the importation of fuel.

However, the availability of the newly procured fuel across the country will determine whether motorists can finally return to normal refuelling routines after weeks of uncertainty.

Consumers Association of Malawi (CAMA) executive director John Kapito said Malawians would only have peace of mind when fuel became consistently available.

Meanwhile, Blantyre City Mayor Isaac Jomo Osman has called on Malawians to pray for the country as the shortages continue to affect people’s daily lives.

Osman has questioned whether leaders are sleeping peacefully while motorists spend long hours searching for fuel. He has also spoken of the strain caused by the queues, saying the situation kept him awake until around 2am.