Fuel crisis persists in the Malian city of Ségou
Since September 2025, the city of Ségou in central Mali has been gripped by a persistent fuel crisis. This situation is not just an inconvenience; it is a fundamental threat to the regional economy and the daily routines of its residents.
Located more than 200 kilometers from the capital, Bamako, the city relies on fuel shipments protected by the Forces armées maliennes (FAMa). Due to the precarious security environment, these vital convoys only reach the city two or three times every month.
Inadequate fuel distribution
When the trucks finally arrive, a fleet of over ten tankers enters the city. However, the distribution is heavily skewed. The majority of the load is reserved for industrial production and Énergie du Mali (EDM), the national electricity provider. Consequently, only a handful of trucks—often just three or four—are allocated to public gas stations. These limited stocks are typically drained within 48 hours of arrival.
Local residents report that the irregular supply, driven by security concerns, has paved the way for a flourishing and expensive black market. They highlight the constant “out of stock” signs at official pumps and are calling for more consistent deliveries to stabilize the city.
Black market profiteering
As soon as the pumps run dry, informal traders step in. In various neighborhoods of Ségou, the price for a liter of gasoline has skyrocketed, ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 francs CFA—far exceeding official rates.
This parallel market has left many citizens questioning the source of the fuel being sold openly on the streets. There is a growing sense of frustration that opportunists are exploiting the crisis for significant profit without facing legal consequences.
Severe impact on the local economy
The fuel shortage is having a ripple effect across Ségou’s society Africa. Traffic on the city’s main thoroughfares has noticeably thinned as people limit their movements.
Public transportation is bearing the brunt of the crisis. The cost of a ride on a “katakatani” tricycle has doubled, jumping from 100 to 200 francs CFA. This price hike is a significant burden for students, teachers, and daily laborers who rely on these vehicles.
In response, the FAMa has increased patrols and checkpoints to prevent the unauthorized transport of large fuel quantities to outlying areas. Despite these efforts, the people of Ségou are still waiting for a permanent solution to a crisis that continues to weaken their economic stability.
