Minister of Energy Jean Mathanga's deadline for fuel supply stability has passed, yet motorists in Malawi's Central and Southern regions still face significant challenges accessing fuel. A survey in Lilongwe City revealed several service stations without petrol or diesel. Stations in Kawale, Biwi, and around Kamuzu Central Hospital had neither fuel type. Similar shortages were observed in Blantyre and other Southern Region districts.
In Lilongwe, some service stations had fuel, but long queues formed. Informal reports of a potential petrol delivery at Kambuku Service Station attracted many vehicles. Gateway TotalEnergies had diesel and minimal queues. A similar situation existed in Blantyre City, where only one of eight surveyed stations had diesel, and petrol was scarce. Motorcycle taxi operator Patrick Mambo described his experience refuelling his motorbike, saying some friends were still queuing.
The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority's fuel delivery schedule for the day showed 115 service stations were expected to receive fuel. Of these, 45 were to receive diesel, 62 petrol, and eight both fuels. This number increased from 88 on Wednesday and 84 on Tuesday but was below Monday's 126. The minister did not respond to multiple calls.
Motorists have created WhatsApp groups to share fuel availability updates. A member of Lilongwe's Fuel Availability Group expressed frustration, saying the situation was hopeless. Petroda Malawi Limited has been consistent with deliveries, but a group update indicated additional fuel would be delivered to only four of 30 stations. National Oil Company of Malawi spokesperson Raymond Likambale promised an update but did not respond.
Last week, Mathanga indicated that fuel supplies would normalise this week, especially in the Southern Region. The scarcity has lasted almost two months. Fuel Service Retailers Association chairperson Happy Jere said deliveries improved between Saturday and Monday, but gains were not sustained. The situation remains challenging for motorists.
Regional disparities in fuel availability persist. In Thyolo, only one filling station had diesel, while in Salima, there was no petrol but some diesel available. Mangochi and Liwonde had neither diesel nor petrol. The continued shortages affect various sectors, including transportation and commerce.
The fuel shortage crisis continues to impact daily life in Malawi. With motorists struggling to access fuel, the government faces pressure to resolve the issue. The situation remains a concern for citizens and businesses alike, with many hoping for a swift resolution.
Key points
- Motorists in Malawi's Central and Southern regions face persistent fuel shortages.
- The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority's fuel delivery schedule shows an increase in stations receiving fuel.
- The fuel scarcity has lasted almost two months, affecting various sectors.
