The Al-Qaeda-affiliated group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) has announced a blockade on Mali’s border regions of Kayes and Nioro du Sahel, effectively halting fuel imports and disrupting trade with Senegal and Mauritania. This blockade, declared today, targets the critical supply chains that support local economies.
JNIM has banned fuel imports from four neighboring countries and suspended the operations of Diarra Transport, a key logistics company in the region. The group"s actions are aimed at crippling the movement of goods and fuel, which are vital for the livelihoods of many in the affected areas.
This blockade comes amid rising tensions in West Africa, where militant groups have increasingly asserted control over border regions. The situation marks a significant escalation in JNIM"s efforts to exert influence and disrupt state authority in Mali, as previously reported.
The impact of this blockade is likely to be severe, with local populations facing shortages of essential goods and fuel. As the situation develops, it remains uncertain how the Malian government will respond to restore order and ensure the flow of goods across its borders.
