BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Black Economic Empowerment Movement (MaBLEM) has expressed deep concern over the ongoing fuel crisis that continues to paralyze daily life across the country, despite repeated government assurances that normal supply would resume.
In a strongly worded statement released this week and signed by MaBLEM Chairperson Robert Mkwezalamba and Coordinator Fryson Chodzi,MaBLEM said the situation on the ground remains critical, particularly regarding the scarcity of petrol.
The organization questioned why, even after the Ministry of Energy announced that fuel tankers were on their way to Malawi, long queues continue to snake around filling stations nationwide.
According to the group, the persistent shortages are not merely a result of supply chain constraints but are being aggravated by widespread illegal fuel trading on the black market.
MaBLEM revealed that on November 9, 2025, over 75 percent of fuel stations in Lilongwe received new supplies, yet the shortage has not eased.
“What we are witnessing instead is the flourishing of an organized black market where fuel is being diverted, hoarded and resold at exorbitant prices ranging from K8,000 to K12,000 per litre far above the official pump price of K3,500,”part of the statement.
The movement noted that some individuals, particularly motorcycle operators and taxi drivers are taking advantage of the situation by buying fuel multiple times at filling stations, then reselling it illegally.
This behavior, MaBLEM said, is fueling artificial scarcity and denying ordinary Malawians access to fuel at regulated prices.
MaBLEM also took aim at the authorities, accusing them of failing to enforce the law.
It said police officers and energy regulators have largely turned a blind eye to rampant black market activities taking place in areas such as Mtandire, Bwandilo, Biwi Triangle, Kanengo and Area 25 in Lilongwe.
“This level of lawlessness threatens national stability, disrupts business operations and contributes to inflationary pressures that are directly hurting ordinary citizens,” the statement warned.
The organization has since called on the government, through the Ministry of Energy, the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) and the Malawi Police Service, to take coordinated action to dismantle the illegal fuel networks and ensure strict enforcement of trading regulations.
Furthermore, MaBLEM urged citizens to refrain from buying fuel from black market vendors, stressing that doing so only perpetuates corruption, scarcity and exploitation.
“As long as there is demand on the black market, illegal traders will continue manipulating supply to their advantage,” the movement emphasized.
MaBLEM believes that by curbing illegal trading and encouraging responsible consumer behavior, Malawi can restore normal supply, stabilize fuel prices and protect motorists and legitimate businesses from undue hardship.
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