Fuel Blockade by al-Qaeda-linked Militants Paralyzes Mali’s Capital, Heightens Fears of Jihadist Takeover
By Paul Ebi
A two-month-old fuel blockade imposed by al Qaeda-linked militants has virtually crippled Mali’s capital, Bamako, deepening the economic and humanitarian crisis in the country and mounting pressure on the ruling military junta.
The blockade, enforced by insurgents controlling key roads leading into the capital, has severely disrupted the transportation of fuel and essential goods. Long queues of vehicles stretch across filling stations as supplies dwindle, forcing prices of petrol and diesel to skyrocket. Public transportation has nearly ground to a halt, and businesses dependent on generators are struggling to stay afloat amid worsening power shortages.
Residents describe the situation as unbearable, with hospitals, markets, and government offices experiencing significant operational breakdowns. “We have fuel for only a few more days,” said a commercial driver in Bamako. “If nothing changes, the city will completely shut down.”
Analysts say the blockade is part of a calculated strategy by al Qaeda-affiliated groups to undermine the military government led by Colonel Assimi Goïta, which has been struggling to maintain control over large swathes of Mali’s territory since seizing power in 2021.
“This is not just about fuel — it’s a test of authority,” said a regional security expert based in Dakar. “The jihadists are tightening the noose on Bamako to show that the government cannot protect its citizens or ensure basic supplies.”
International observers are increasingly alarmed that the militants could be positioning themselves to expand their control beyond the northern and central regions of Mali into the capital, potentially threatening the stability of the entire Sahel region.
Despite the growing crisis, the junta has downplayed the impact of the blockade, insisting that military operations are underway to reopen supply routes. However, locals report little sign of improvement, and frustration is mounting over the government’s inability to resolve the standoff.
Mali has faced escalating instability since the 2012 rebellion that saw northern territories fall under jihadist control. Although foreign interventions once curbed militant advances, the withdrawal of international forces in recent years has left the country increasingly vulnerable to insurgent offensives.
With food prices rising, fuel nearly exhausted, and insecurity spreading, many Malians fear that unless swift action is taken, Bamako could face a total economic collapse — or worse, fall under the shadow of jihadist domination.
