In April 2025, in the midst of a recurring fuel supply crisis, disagreements emerged over the best approach to resolve the situation.

While some government officials argued that Malawi stands to benefit more by sourcing fuel directly from oil-producing nations in the Gulf through a government-to-government arrangement, others within the administration opposed the idea, preferring to maintain the system that uses a private agent company operating through Kenya.

In this special report, Eamon Piringu examines the debate at a time when the government is intensifying efforts to permanently address a problem that continues to affect the daily lives and economic well-being of Malawians.