Niger to Supply Mali with 150 Million Litres of Diesel in New Energy Partnership

Niamey, Niger — In a significant development for regional energy cooperation, Niger has agreed to supply neighboring Mali with 150 million litres of diesel following a partnership agreement signed on Tuesday.

The deal, orchestrated between Mali’s junta leader, Colonel Assimi Goïta, and Niger’s Oil Minister, Mahaman Moustapha Barke, aims to alleviate the chronic power shortages in Mali by supporting Énergie du Mali (EDM-SA), the national energy company.

EDM-SA has faced considerable challenges in providing consistent electricity to Mali’s capital and other towns, exacerbated by its substantial debts.

Under the terms of the new agreement, Niger will offer the diesel at nearly half the normal market rate, marking a crucial step in supporting Mali’s energy needs.

This partnership highlights Niger’s growing role as a regional energy player.

In November, Nigerien authorities launched a significant initiative with the inauguration of a pipeline designed to transport crude oil to Benin, sourced and extracted by the Chinese state-owned enterprise, China National Petroleum Corporation.

Further cementing its status, Niger announced in February a memorandum of understanding to supply diesel not only to Mali but also to Burkina Faso and Chad, which together with Niger form the Alliance of Sahel States.

This strategic move is part of Niger's broader ambition to boost its oil production capabilities. The country plans to increase its oil output to 110,000 barrels per day, with 90,000 barrels designated for export.

The agreement between Niger and Mali represents a pivotal moment for both nations, promising to enhance energy security and foster economic cooperation within the Sahel region.

As Mali struggles with regular power disruptions, this deal is seen as a lifeline that could stabilize and potentially improve the energy supply to millions of Malians.