The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) has attributed the country’s ongoing fuel supply challenges to foreign exchange (forex) constraints and logistical problems affecting fuel imports and distribution.
MERA Public Relations Manager Fitina Khonje said forex scarcity remains a national challenge, although fuel procurement continues to receive priority in the allocation of available foreign currency.
“Fuel importation is ongoing and the supply gaps will gradually be resolved,” Khonje said.
Her comments come amid reports that fuel reserves held by the National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) have run dry, forcing the company to rely on direct allocations to filling stations to prevent further shortages.
Under the arrangement, fuel tankers entering the country are reportedly being directed to deliver consignments directly to filling stations instead of first replenishing NOCMA’s strategic reserves.
Khonje said financing gaps can sometimes arise despite the prioritisation of fuel procurement, with their effects becoming visible over time.
She also cited logistical challenges as another factor affecting the delivery and distribution of fuel across the country.
Khonje said the situation had not changed in terms of government assurances, adding that authorities have been keeping the public informed about efforts to address the forex challenges.
She said they are taking steps to improve distribution and delivery depending on available supplies.
