Malawians concerned as fuel shortage worsens

Malawians are growing increasingly concerned as fuel shortages in the country worsen, forcing some residents to sleep overnight at petrol stations in hopes of securing fuel. Motorist Harry Jim, who has been waiting at a station, expressed the severity of the crisis, stating, "The fuel crisis is real."

Motorbike rider Paul Christopher, who typically earns his living by transporting people, has been unable to work for three weeks due to a lack of petrol. "If fuel comes, we will be paying the debts incurred during this period before we could survive again," Christopher lamented while patiently waiting in a long queue for fuel in Blantyre, the country's commercial hub.

Fuel shortages have plagued Malawi for years, and the issue was a significant concern during last year's elections. The situation briefly improved after President Peter Mutharika's victory, who increased local fuel prices. However, the problem resurfaced after the start of the Iran war in late February.

The government attributes the current crisis to a shortage of foreign exchange. President Mutharika is hopeful that a new loan from the International Monetary Fund will help stabilize the economy; however, a deal has not been finalized yet.