Zambia Turns to Angola for Fuel Imports to Ensure Supply Stability
Zambia is actively considering the importation of fuel from Angola to secure a consistent supply within the country. Rodney Kalota, Director of Petroleum at the Ministry of Energy, announced this development, highlighting the government’s commitment to ensuring a stable fuel supply.
Speaking at the Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s (ZACCI) Energy Breakfast Meeting in Lusaka, Kalota stated, “The government is committed to exploring various measures to ensure a constant fuel supply in the country.”
Kalota also reaffirmed the Ministry of Energy’s dedication to President Hichilema’s directive to stabilize fuel prices, stating, “We are equal to the task to implement the President’s call to ensure the predictability of fuel prices.”
During the event, Mike Mulongoti, Director of Strategy and Corporation at Total Energies, explained that fuel prices are influenced by factors beyond the government’s control. “Fuel prices are determined by economic fundamentals in the international market,” Mulongoti noted.
Kelvin Chongo, Supply and Distribution Manager at RUBIS Energy, observed that the expansion of fuel service stations is directly linked to Zambia’s economic growth.
“Various economic activities in the country have triggered the demand for fuel, thereby pushing up supply chains,” Chongo commented.
Chewe Kanwa, Senior Manager for Fossil Fuels at the Energy Regulation Board (ERB), emphasized the importance of safety compliance at fuel stations, affirming, “All established fuel stations in the country that have received approval have met operational standards.”
As Zambia explores importing fuel from Angola, collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders remains essential for maintaining supply and safety standards.
