Black-market fuel sells for twice the price in Malawi
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Mwnation
Fuel shortages in Malawi are fuelling a black market where petrol sells for two to three times the official price, while motorists wait for hours and transport costs rise. The situation could point to diversion and failures in oversight, according to Mwnation.
Fuel is being sold on the black market at two or three times the official price in Malawi, while motorists wait for hours outside filling stations that are often out of stock. The situation is driving up transport costs and disrupting economic activity, the Malawian outlet Mwnation reports.
The crisis turned deadly on Monday in Kanengo, in the capital Lilongwe, where a fuel seller died in a fire caused by a motorcycle crash during a police chase. The motorcycle was carrying 20-litre jerrycans. His companion reportedly suffered severe burns, according to Mwnation.
The outlet has called on the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (Mera), the police and other relevant bodies to investigate supplies to the illicit market, possible diversion of fuel and failures in oversight. Civil society organisations, including the Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC), are also demanding accountability.
The accident comes as the shortage has become a national emergency, following the crackdown on illicit fuel trading announced on 12 October. It follows reports on 6 October of increased bus fares, a direct consequence of supply difficulties.
