Minister of Energy Jean Mathanga has announced that 23.6 million litres of fuel purchased by the government are on their way to Malawi, raising hopes that the ongoing fuel shortage could ease starting next week.
Speaking today, Mathanga said the government acknowledges that the fuel shortage, which has been caused by a lack of foreign exchange, has significantly affected Malawians across various sectors of society.
He noted that the shortage has disrupted several essential activities, including government operations and other services that depend on a reliable fuel supply.
Mathanga assured Malawians that the government is taking steps to address the situation, expressing optimism that the newly purchased fuel would help restore normal supplies at filling stations across the country.
“While acknowledging that this problem has affected Malawians and government operations, I want to assure the public that this will soon become a thing of the past. We have purchased 23.6 million litres of fuel, of which 11.6 million litres are on the way, while some supplies have already started arriving at filling stations,” said Mathanga.
Providing an update on fuel distribution, Mathanga said supplies had already reached various areas in Mzuzu, offering some relief to motorists and other consumers who have been struggling to access fuel.
In Lilongwe, he said diesel had started reaching filling stations, while there were expectations that petrol would be available at more filling stations by the end of tomorrow.
However, Mathanga acknowledged that fuel distribution in Blantyre had been slower compared to other areas, although the government remains hopeful that incoming supplies will help ease the situation.
Commenting on the development, Consumers Association of Malawi (CAMA) Executive Director John Kapito said Malawians would only feel relieved once fuel becomes consistently available across the country.
Kapito’s remarks highlight the concerns of consumers who continue to face difficulties due to the shortage. While the government’s announcement offers hope, Malawians will be looking for a steady and reliable supply of fuel at filling stations to restore normal transport and other daily activities.
