By Burnett Munthali
Lilongwe, Malawi – On Saturday, January 4, motorists in Area 49 endured yet another day of long fuel queues, highlighting the ongoing fuel crisis that has gripped the country. By early morning, lines of vehicles stretched for kilometers outside petrol stations, with some drivers reporting waiting times of over five hours.
The crisis, which has persisted for weeks, stems from supply chain disruptions and foreign exchange shortages, making it difficult for fuel companies to procure adequate stocks. While the government recently announced measures to address the issue, including importing fuel from neighboring countries, these efforts have yet to alleviate the shortages.
Motorists expressed frustration at the situation, with many blaming poor planning and lack of communication from authorities. “I arrived at the station around 6 a.m., and it’s now past midday,” said Patrick Banda, a minibus driver. “How are we supposed to make a living when we spend the entire day in queues?”
Private car owners echoed similar sentiments, with some resorting to paying fuel attendants extra to secure fuel quickly. “This is not sustainable,” said Mary Chirwa, a resident of Area 49. “The government needs to act now before the situation worsens.”
The fuel shortages have disrupted businesses and public transportation, driving up the cost of goods and services. Many minibuses in Lilongwe have reduced their trips, leading to overcrowded buses and fare hikes. Small businesses, reliant on generators due to frequent power outages, are also feeling the pinch.
Economic experts warn that prolonged fuel shortages could exacerbate the country’s inflation rate and further weaken the economy. “Fuel is the backbone of economic activity,” said economist Dr. Thokozani Nkhoma. “Without it, transportation, manufacturing, and agriculture are all negatively affected.”
The Ministry of Energy has acknowledged the challenges and assured the public that efforts are underway to stabilize fuel supply. In a statement issued on Friday, the ministry said it was working with fuel companies to resolve the foreign exchange issues and expedite fuel deliveries.
However, many Malawians remain skeptical. Civil society organizations have called for greater transparency and accountability, urging the government to prioritize fuel procurement over other expenditures.
As the fuel queues continue to grow in Area 49 and beyond, the need for immediate and sustainable solutions becomes increasingly urgent. For now, motorists and businesses can only hope that the government’s promises translate into action, easing the burden on an already struggling population.
