As members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), Niger has sent 82 fuel-laden tankers to support Mali’s economy, which is struggling with severe shortages caused by insurgent blockades in the region.
The tankers completed a 1,400-kilometre journey from Niamey to Bamako, arriving on Sunday amid a worsening national fuel crisis and ongoing insecurity.
Malian officials, addressing the nation during the reception, said: “These 82 tankers left Niamey, travelled 1,400 kilometres in 21 days and arrived in Bamako. They constitute a donation from His Excellency the President of Niger.”
The convoy, which travelled through insecure zones over three weeks, was greeted by soldiers, government officials, and local residents on arrival.
Fuel Shortage and School Closures
The delivery comes as Mali continues to face a severe fuel shortage caused by a blockade imposed by al Qaeda-linked militants.
Security analysts cited by Reuters said the blockade is part of a campaign aimed at destabilising Mali’s military-led government by restricting access to energy supplies.
Consequently, the government had temporarily closed all schools and universities from October 27 to November 9, 2025, as public transport was paralysed and many students and teachers could not commute.
Classes officially resumed on November 10 in Bamako and several other regions, although some teachers in rural areas continue to face difficulties due to lingering fuel shortages.
Militant Pressure in the Region
The blockade is largely driven by Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), an al-Qaeda-affiliated coalition.
Formed in 2017, JNIM has expanded operations across the Sahel and into West African countries including Burkina Faso, Niger, Ghana, Benin, Togo, and Ivory Coast.
International and Regional Support
In addition to Niger’s assistance, Russia has pledged to supply between 160,000 and 200,000 metric tons of petroleum and agricultural products to Mali, although there is no confirmation that these deliveries have occurred.
Meanwhile, Russia’s Africa Corps has provided notable support by escorting fuel-tanker convoys to protect them from hijacking.
At the reception ceremony, Malian official said: “These 82 tankers will certainly contribute to improving our country’s supply of petroleum product but also alleviating the suffering of our people.” He added: “This is a act of fraternity, friendship and solidarity from the people of Niger to Mali.”
