AU Warns of Crisis as Terrorists Block Fuel in Mali

The African Union has raised alarm over a worsening security and humanitarian situation in Mali, where militants have reportedly imposed a fuel blockade that is affecting the entire country.

According to the AU Commission chairman Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the extremist group Jama'at Nasr al‑Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), which is linked to Al‑Qaeda, has been attacking fuel trucks, kidnapping drivers, and blocking fuel deliveries entering Mali from neighboring countries.

The blockade has had serious nationwide consequences. With fuel supplies severely limited, electricity production has been affected, leading to frequent power outages. Many citizens are also forced to wait in long lines to buy fuel for their vehicles and generators.

Most fuel imports normally arrive through routes from Senegal and Ivory Coast, but the attacks on transport convoys have disrupted these supply chains.

The African Union said it is ready to support Mali and other countries in the Sahel region as they deal with increasing terrorist threats. It also called for a strong and coordinated international response to fight terrorism and violent extremism in the region.

As security conditions continue to deteriorate, several countries—including the United States, Australia, Italy, and Germany—have advised their citizens to leave Mali immediately.

Source: Newstimehub