In a groundbreaking moment for Zambia’s energy sector, the country has successfully completed its first diesel offloading under the newly introduced Open Access Framework. This historic event took place at the TAZAMA tanks in Dar es Salaam, marking a pivotal step towards greater efficiency and competition in Zambia’s petroleum industry.
The inaugural diesel shipment, totaling 95,000 metric tonnes under Lot 1 for April 2025, is the first to be imported by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) using the innovative Open Access model. This new framework allows for independent importation of petroleum products through the TAZAMA Pipeline, revolutionizing fuel supply logistics and offering a platform for enhanced industry competition.
A Milestone for Energy Security and Efficiency
At the offloading site, Mr. Peter Mumba, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services at the Ministry of Energy, lauded the participating companies, particularly Titanium Oil Corporation in collaboration with ADNOC, for being the first to deliver a consignment under this progressive framework. “This milestone is a testament to the government’s commitment to fostering private-sector-led growth and building a more resilient and efficient petroleum supply chain,” Mumba said.
The offloading operation is set to take nine days, after which the diesel will be transported via the TAZAMA Pipeline to Zambia’s Ndola Fuel Terminal, ready for nationwide distribution. This will not only ensure more reliable fuel access across Zambia but will also help streamline logistics within the energy sector.
Strategic Partnerships Driving Change
Among the key importers for Lot 1 are Titanium Oil Corporation / ADNOC (Joint Venture), Boltt Global Solutions Limited, and Indeni Energy Company. Titanium Oil Corporation’s Managing Director, Ms. Bertha Kalongelwa, emphasized the importance of this development for Zambia’s energy future, stating that it highlights the success of public-private partnerships and signals stronger energy security for the nation. “This is a step towards a more competitive, sustainable, and diversified energy supply chain in Zambia,” she said.
Mr. Davison Thewethe, Managing Director of TAZAMA, also attended the ceremony, underscoring the significance of the Open Access Framework in optimizing Zambia’s petroleum infrastructure.
Key Benefits of the Open Access Framework
The Open Access Framework offers a range of benefits for Zambia’s energy landscape:
- Enhanced Fuel Security: By opening up the market to multiple suppliers, the framework ensures a more stable and diversified fuel supply, reducing reliance on a single source.
- Competitive Pricing: With more private sector participation, fuel prices will become more competitive, benefiting both consumers and businesses.
- Efficient Use of Infrastructure: The framework promotes better utilization of Zambia’s existing pipeline infrastructure, ensuring cost-effective fuel transportation.
- Transparency and Accountability: The model introduces greater transparency in fuel procurement processes, improving industry accountability.
- Increased Investment: The Open Access system is expected to attract more investment into Zambia’s energy sector, further strengthening its capacity.
The Ministry of Energy has committed to ongoing support and will continue providing updates as the Open Access Framework expands across Zambia, paving the way for a more robust and dynamic energy sector.
As the country moves towards greater energy independence, this milestone reflects not only Zambia’s progress in the energy sector but also its commitment to modernizing infrastructure and fostering a competitive market that can drive economic growth.
