Africa

Fuel Shortage Shuts Down Schools Across Mali for Two Weeks

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu Fuel Shortage Shuts Down Schools Across Mali for Two Weeks Mali has announced a nationwide closure of schools following a severe fuel crisis that has crippled transportation and daily activities across the country.

Chioma Ndukwu 4 months ago 2 min read

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

Mali has announced a nationwide closure of schools following a severe fuel crisis that has crippled transportation and daily activities across the country.

Education Minister Amadou Sy Savane disclosed the decision in a televised statement on state broadcaster ORTM, confirming that all public and private schools will suspend academic activities from October 27 to November 9. Classes are expected to resume on November 10.

The fuel shortage, which has deepened in recent weeks, is largely attributed to armed groups blocking key supply routes used by fuel tankers.

The blockade has led to long queues at filling stations, restricted the movement of vehicles, and brought public transport to a near standstill — especially in the capital, Bamako.

Residents say the scarcity has disrupted not only education but also business and healthcare services. Many parents and students have been unable to commute to schools, while universities in Bamako have also halted lectures due to the transportation breakdown.

The crisis has worsened living conditions in urban centers, with the once-bustling streets of Bamako now unusually quiet.

Meanwhile, the United States Embassy in Bamako has instructed non-essential staff and their families to leave the country, citing growing security and logistical concerns linked to the fuel shortage. The embassy also announced that it could no longer provide normal consular services outside the capital.

The Malian government has not yet specified when fuel supplies will normalize, but officials say efforts are underway to restore access to blocked routes and ease the impact of the shortage on essential sectors.

Mali, a landlocked West African nation, has struggled with recurring insecurity following years of conflict involving jihadist groups and armed militias. The instability has disrupted trade routes and weakened government control in several regions.

The ongoing fuel crisis adds to the country’s economic strain, already burdened by sanctions, inflation, and a fragile transition process following the 2021 military takeover.