Mali’s government announced plans to impose fuel rationing to address shortages caused by al-Qaida-linked attacks on fuel transport and supply routes. The measures aim to reduce long lines at gas stations ahead of Ramadan and include plate registration and limits on how often vehicles can refuel.

Mali’s government said it will introduce fuel rationing to respond to widespread shortages in the landlocked country after al-Qaida-linked groups operating in border regions cut off fuel supplies. Officials did not specify when rationing would begin, but framed it as a way to reduce long queues at gas stations, with Ramadan approaching. The rationing plan includes registering vehicle license plates and enforcing waiting periods between refueling. Under the announced rules, cars would be allowed to refuel every 72 hours and motorcycles every 48 hours. The shortages have been worsened by attacks on fuel trucks since September, with more than 100 trucks reportedly burned, disrupting imports and distribution. Russian troops with the Africa Corps, described as Moscow’s state-controlled paramilitary force operating in West Africa, have recently begun escorting tanker convoys distributing gasoline across Mali. Since the May 2021 coup, Mali’s military government, along with those in Burkina Faso and Niger, has shifted from Western partners toward Russia for support against militants linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State group.