Focus on Africa Militants' blockade paralyses Mali-Senegal trade corridor
Oct 13, 2025
Join Dr. Mani Lacunze, an international relations lecturer, as he dives into Mali's precarious situation with the JNIM fuel blockade and its dire implications for governance and daily life. He discusses the economic strain on Malians facing transport and food shortages. Claire Mawisa, a BBC Africa Eye reporter, explores the world of self-proclaimed shamans in South Africa using psychedelics for mental health, shedding light on potential dangers and the blurred lines of legality. They also touch on the 'swag gap' trend, highlighting how style differences can impact relationships.
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Blockade Exploits Mali's Landlocked Weakness
- JNIM's fuel blockade targets Mali's landlocked vulnerability to pressure the junta politically and economically.
- Fuel shortages ripple into transport, food, medicine and power, worsening poverty nationwide.
Secret Talks Carry Political Risk
- The junta has quietly held talks with JNIM while publicly trying to appear tough to avoid looking weak.
- Negotiations risk legitimising insurgents and undermining the military government's claim to control.
Avoid Relying Solely On Military Convoys
- Diversify and secure fuel routes rather than relying solely on military convoys to alleviate shortages.
- Scale logistics sustainably because small military-run deliveries cannot lower prices or meet national demand.