President Hichilema Assures Nation on Fuel Security Amid Global Tensions
President Hakainde Hichilema has assured the nation that all necessary measures are being taken to mitigate the potential impact of the ongoing conflict between the United States/Israel and Iran on Zambia’s petroleum energy sector.
The President emphasised that Government is closing all gaps in the fuel supply chain to ensure continued supply of petroleum products throughout the country.
He made these remarks when he met a cross-section of oil marketing companies (OMC) and fuel transporters operating in Zambia at State House.
Meanwhile, President Hichilema warned that hoarding fuel stocks amounts to economic sabotage, questioning why filling stations should run dry when fuel stocks are available in the country.
“The issue of hoarding fuel cannot be accepted. Let’s be clear, that is called sabotage and that is anti-teamwork. We cannot do things like that; we are partners, and I am following what is happening,” he said.
The President stressed that the energy sector is the engine of any economy, and the UPND Government has prioritized reforms to improve efficiency. He highlighted the construction of new oil pipelines as one of the initiatives that will allow more fuel stocks into the country, calling for active involvement of OMCs.
Zambia is currently advancing two major oil and gas pipeline projects, the Tanzania–Zambia Multi-Products Pipeline (TZMPP) and the Namibia, Zambia Refined Petroleum and Natural Gas Pipeline (NZPGP), to diversify supply routes, and stabilise fuel prices. These projects are expected to transform Zambia into a regional hub for petroleum distribution.
President Hichilema implored players in the energy sector to partner with Government, thanking them for enhancing their role after the state shifted away from direct fuel procurement, allowing OMCs to take up that responsibility under a liberalised system, a policy which aims to improve efficiency, transparency, and competition.
Energy Minister Makozo Chikote disclosed that the country currently has at least 60 days of diesel stock cover and 22 days of petrol stocks. He noted that deliveries to the Indeni Petroleum Refinery have improved, stressing that the meeting was convened to address disruptions in the fuel chain.
“We are looking at short-term and long-term interventions to address the challenges in the sector,” Mr. Chikote said.
OMC delegation representative Pinchi Simukwai observed that the effects of the US–Israel conflict with Iran continue to exert pressure on the market, with Zambia experiencing ripple effects. He explained that developments in the Middle East present operational and financial challenges for OMCs, as freight and insurance costs have increased due to volatility in the region.
