Resolving Fuel Shortage in Malawi

Abstract

The fuel shortage in Malawi has been heavily debated in both 2011 and 2012 and attracted international attention. Various stakeholders have tried to provide solutions for the problem. This paper strives to set out solutions which can be adopted to solve or partially solve the problems. The paper starts with looking at the current statistics on the fuel importation in respect of Import Bill and how Malawi Regulatory Authority could assist in the importation of petroleum products in Malawi. Second part looks at the current implications of the fuel scarcity in Malawi and finally various ways in which Malawi through various quarters could save Foreign Exchange Currency. The paper does not specifically look at how Malawi can generate more forex to pay its import bills but rather how the country can optimally manage its limited resources. The recommendations emanating from the research paper is that Malawi should optimally utilise the little Foreign Exchange Currency generated in the economy to cater to guarantee availability of petroleum products as well as inorganic fertilisers and basic necessities not available locally such as drugs and medicines.In conclusion, Malawi could adopt radical and contemporary measures to address the Foreign Exchange Currency problems which are likely to shake the current business and political philosophies.