Fuel transporters in Madagascar: a strike that increases the pressure on Jirama
In Madagascar, fuel carriers issued an ultimatum to Jirama, the national water and electricity production and distribution company. They are demanding the payment of a colossal sum of nearly 14 billion ariarys (about three million euros) before August 15. Failing a solution, they threaten to stop their deliveries to the public company. This situation puts the Jirama in a delicate position, especially in this period of the dry season when electricity is essential to meet the growing demand.
In a letter addressed to the Minister of Energy, the fuel carriers underline the non-respect of the commitments of the Jirama concerning the payment of their arrears. A sum of two billion ariarys per month had been agreed in April, to be staggered equitably between all the carriers. However, Jirama did not respect this commitment, which led the carriers to find themselves in a situation of virtual cessation of payment.
This strike by fuel transporters jeopardizes the country’s electricity supply, while the Jirama thermal power stations are operating at full speed to compensate for the drop in the level of the rivers. The consequences of this situation are already being felt, with numerous power cuts and a population suffering the consequences of this energy instability.
For the moment, the Minister of Energy has not yet reacted to this ultimatum from the fuel transporters. The Jirama is therefore faced with growing pressure and must quickly find a solution to avoid a total paralysis of its activities.
This situation highlights the difficulties that Jirama is facing, with accumulated debts and management problems that directly impact the Malagasy population. It is urgent that measures be taken to restore a financial balance and ensure the continuity of water and electricity services in the country. The resolution of this crisis is crucial for the well-being of the population and the economic development of Madagascar