Zambia Looks to Angola for Fuel Importation to Stabilise Supply

Zambia is actively exploring the possibility of importing fuel from Angola to ensure a steady supply within the country. Rodney Kalota, Director of Petroleum at the Ministry of Energy, revealed this development, emphasising the government's commitment to securing a consistent 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 constant fuel supply in the country."

Additionally, Kalota affirmed the Ministry of Energy's dedication to President Hichilema’s directive to stabilise fuel prices. "We are equal to the task to implement the President’s call to ensure predictability of fuel prices," he said.

During the same event, Mike Mulongoti, Director of Strategy and Corporation at Total Energies, clarified that fuel prices are beyond the government's control. "Fuel prices are determined by economic fundamentals on the international market," Mulongoti explained.

Kelvin Chongo, Supply and Distribution Manager at RUBIS Energy, noted that the expansion of fuel service stations correlates with Zambia’s economic growth. "Various economic activities in the country have triggered the demand for fuel, thereby pushing up supply chains," Chongo observed.

Energy Regulation Board (ERB) Fossil Fuels Senior Manager, Chewe Kanwa, stressed the importance of safety compliance at fuel stations. "All the established fuel stations in the country whose establishment has been approved have met operation standards," Kanwa affirmed.

As Zambia explores importing fuel from Angola, the collaboration between government and industry stakeholders remains crucial in maintaining supply and safety standards.