Mali has suspended all school and university classes for two weeks starting Monday, blaming a severe fuel shortage caused by a militant blockade.
The fuel crisis began in early September when an al-Qaeda-linked group, JNIM, blocked imports and attacked fuel convoys trying to enter the country.
The blockade has led to the closure of fuel stations in the capital, Bamako, forcing many residents to walk or stay home.
Analysts say the blockade is a tactic by militants to pressure Mali’s military-led government by targeting the country’s economy. On Friday, Mali announced that Russia plans to send between 160,000 and 200,000 metric tons of petroleum and agricultural goods. However, Russian envoy Alexey Keulika didn’t provide exact details on what products will arrive or when.
Keulika also revealed that next month, a board meeting will be held regarding a new gold refinery being built in Mali with Russian support, further strengthening ties between the two countries.
