By redaction ARPS with AP
Residents in Bamako, Mali, are facing severe fuel shortages due to a blockade by militants from Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), which started in early September.
This has led to long queues at gas stations and increased tensions among commuters. Despite being a significant gold producer, nearly half of Mali’s population lives in poverty, and the blockade is having a profoundly adverse impact on the local economy.
This situation is seen as a setback for Mali’s military junta, which is already grappling with attacks from militant groups. In response, the Malian army has begun escorting some fuel shipments and conducting strikes against JNIM hideouts.
