Zambia Diesel Shortage Linked to Pipeline Supply Delays, NOMA Says
Zambia Fuel Shortage Caused by Delayed Diesel Releases from TAZAMA Pipeline, NOMA Says
The National Oil Marketing Association (NOMA) has attributed the recent shortage of diesel and other petroleum products in Zambia to limited access to fuel supplies rather than stockpiling by oil marketing companies.
In a statement issued on March 13, the association said its members operating under the regulatory supervision of the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) are facing distribution constraints due to delayed releases of diesel through the TAZAMA Pipeline.
Supply Constraints, Not Hoarding
NOMA rejected public claims suggesting that Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) are deliberately hoarding fuel.
“The supply challenges currently being experienced are primarily the result of limited access to product, rather than any deliberate withholding of stock by OMCs,” the association said.
According to NOMA, diesel supply has been particularly affected because the product is largely transported and distributed through the TAZAMA Pipeline.
Despite expectations of regular deliveries, the volume of diesel released into the market has been significantly lower than anticipated.
Distribution Networks Affected
The reduced supply has limited the ability of oil marketing companies to distribute diesel through their networks and supply filling stations across the country.
Under ERB guidelines, diesel transported through the pipeline is prioritized for the retail market, with any remaining quantities allocated to commercial customers. However, NOMA noted that no diesel allocation has been made to the commercial market since March 1, 2026.
The association also revealed that some oil marketing companies had fully prepaid for diesel consignments as early as February with the previous supplier but have yet to receive the corresponding fuel deliveries.
“The circumstances surrounding the delayed release of diesel from the pipeline remain unclear and are outside the control of the OMCs,” NOMA said.
Call for Regulatory Intervention
Despite the challenges, NOMA emphasized that its members are ready to distribute petroleum products immediately once supplies become available.
The association has called on the Energy Regulation Board to intervene and facilitate the timely release of diesel through the pipeline in order to restore normal supply levels.
NOMA warned that continued delays could result in widespread fuel shortages, potentially affecting consumers, businesses, and economic activity across Zambia.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and industry stakeholders to ensure stability, transparency, and reliable petroleum supply throughout the country.
