The Malawi government has begun prioritising diesel supplies for critical sectors such as hospitals, water utilities, and security agencies as it grapples with persistent shortages that are disrupting transport and business activity across the country.
Minister of Energy Jean Mathanga said in a statement issued on May 27, 2026, that authorities are coordinating closely with the National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA), fuel importers, financial institutions, and transport operators to stabilise supply and minimise the impact on essential services.
Mathanga acknowledged that the shortages have placed significant pressure on households, businesses, and public institutions, particularly in areas heavily reliant on diesel for transportation and power generation.
“We want to assure the nation that the government is making every effort to address the situation by engaging relevant stakeholders, including NOCMA, fuel importers, financial institutions, and transport authorities,” she said.
According to the minister, the shortages have largely been driven by disruptions in fuel supply logistics, which have affected the timely distribution of diesel across the country. These challenges have been most evident in the transport sector, where limited fuel availability has slowed operations.
Despite the setbacks, Mathanga said fuel imports are continuing, with measures in place to improve distribution efficiency and ensure that available stocks reach priority users.
Beyond immediate interventions, the government is also pursuing longer term strategies aimed at strengthening fuel security.
These include expanding fuel storage capacity and promoting alternative energy sources to reduce dependence on imported diesel.
Authorities say the combined short-term and structural measures are expected to gradually ease the shortages while building resilience against future supply disruptions.
