Since September 2025, the central Malian city of Ségou has been mired in a relentless fuel crisis that has ground daily routines and economic activity to a near halt. More than 200 kilometers from Bamako, the city relies entirely on escorted convoys managed by the Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) for its fuel supply—operations that occur only two to three times per month due to persistent security threats in the region.

Inadequate fuel distribution deepens the crisis

Each delivery brings over a dozen tanker trucks to Ségou, yet the vast majority are diverted to industrial producers and Énergie du Mali (EDM), the national electricity provider. Just three or four trucks typically make their way to local gas stations, whose reserves are often depleted within 48 hours. Residents report frequent stockouts and call for more reliable supply channels.

Black market thrives amid scarcity

Whenever official pumps run dry, informal vendors step in. Across Ségou’s neighborhoods, gasoline prices on the black market surge to between 2,000 and 5,000 West African CFA francs per liter—far above regulated rates. Locals question the origins of this parallel supply, suspecting profiteers exploit the crisis with little oversight or intervention.

Local economy bears the brunt

The scarcity has crippled mobility and commerce. Main streets show an unusual quiet as activity dwindles. Public transit, especially the ubiquitous tricycle taxis known locally as « katakatani », has doubled in cost—from 100 to 200 West African CFA francs—placing daily commutes out of reach for students, teachers, and workers alike.

In response, the Malian Armed Forces have intensified patrols and roadblocks, seizing vehicles transporting large fuel loads to distant towns. Despite these efforts, residents continue to demand a sustainable resolution to a crisis that erodes Ségou’s economic resilience day by day.