In early September 2025, Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimeen (JNIM), an al-Qaeda-linked militant group, announced a blockade on fuel imports into Mali, particularly affecting key trade routes near Kayes and Nioro in the west.
Since then, JNIM militants have repeatedly targeted fuel convoys in these regions as part of the blockade.
Verified reports confirm that at least 40 fuel tankers have been destroyed in attacks on convoys.
JNIM has claimed responsibility for these attacks, asserting that the vehicles were violating the group’s blockade orders.
Mali’s military, which escorts some convoys, reported coming under attacks and launched airstrikes in response in the Kayes region.
The blockade has disrupted regional commerce and raised concerns about fuel shortages in Bamako, with business leaders warning of economic consequences if supplies remain cut off.
Analysts view the blockade as part of JNIM’s broader strategy to destabilise Mali’s military government and exert control over strategic corridors in the Sahel region.
BLOCKADE STRAINS SUPPLY ROUTES
Earlier in September, JNIM declared a blockade to stop all Senegal-Mali fuel trade, intensifying pressure on Bamako.
Normally, over 100 trucks transport fuel daily, making the corridor Mali’s most important supply route.
Most convoys have been cancelled since the JNIM attack on the Senegal-Mali fuel blockade.
Transport firms cited risks to drivers and cargo. Observers warned of worsening shortages.
Analysts caution Mali’s capital could face critical disruptions if imports remain blocked.
GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY RESPONSE
The Malian army condemned the incident as terrorism and launched air strikes on JNIM bases in Kayes.
Officials reported destroying several militant sites, although independent confirmation remains absent.
Additional patrols were deployed to protect convoys, yet insecurity persists in remote areas.
Analysts noted the JNIM attack on the Senegal-Mali fuel blockade exposes the government’s difficulty in ensuring safety.
The army’s countermeasures underline the challenge of protecting economic lifelines while striking militant strongholds.
REGIONAL IMPACT AND FUTURE RISKS
Economists warned that the JNIM attack on the Senegal-Mali fuel blockade could spark fuel shortages and accelerate inflation in Bamako.
Mali’s economy, already weakened by sanctions and insecurity, risks deeper instability without reliable imports.
Analysts argue JNIM targets economic arteries to undermine state legitimacy, not only military strength.
By disrupting the Senegal-Mali trade, militants erode public confidence in government capacity.
Experts stress that restoring safe fuel flows will require enhanced security and regional cooperation.
