MALAWI on Friday deployed armed soldiers to escort fuel deliveries after a sit-in by truckers caused shortages at gas stations around the country.
According to reports, on Thursday morning, most gas stations in the country’s capital LILONGWE had run out of fuel, sending motorists into a panic.
It was gathered that MALAWI imports its fuel from ports in neighboring TANZANIA and MOZAMBIQUE as the army said soldiers are now accompanying tankers from border posts to the depots, and on to gas stations.
The military said in a statement that it appeals to the members of the general public to avoid interfering with the operation and made it known that the Malawi Defense Force will carry on with the exercise until the situation normalizes.
Government spokesman, GOSPEL KAZAKO said fuel tanker drivers who have been on strike since Wednesday, want better salaries and reduced fees for passports and COVID tests required to cross the border.
KAZAKO also urged the striking truckers not to block federal roads.
