Malawi has procured 23.6 million litres of petrol and diesel to replenish dwindling fuel stocks and ease shortages across the country, with more than 11 million litres already in transit, Energy Minister Jean Mathanga said on Monday.
Speaking in an interview with Zodiak Broadcasting Station (ZBS), Mathanga said 11.6 million litres of the fuel consignment was en route to Malawi, while part of the supplies had already started reaching filling stations.
The announcement comes as authorities seek to stabilise fuel availability after weeks of shortages that have caused long queues at service stations and disrupted transport and business activities in parts of the country.
Fuel shortages have been a recurring challenge in Malawi in recent years, largely driven by foreign currency constraints that have complicated the country’s ability to finance fuel imports.
The shortages have periodically affected transportation, agricultural operations and commercial activity, prompting government interventions to secure supplies and stabilise the market.
The latest procurement is expected to provide relief to motorists and businesses amid concerns over fuel availability and its impact on economic activity.
Authorities have not indicated how long the newly secured stocks are expected to last but say deliveries to filling stations are continuing as additional fuel enters the country.
JN/APA