CHIKOTE ISSUES STERN WARNING OVER FUEL SUPPLY DISRUPTIONS

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Posted by admin on September 5, 2025 at 1:27 AM

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Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote, has issued a strong directive to Tazama Pipeline and Indeni Energy Company management, urging them to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply amid growing concerns over shortages at select filling stations.

During his tour of the facilities in Ndola, Mr Chikote emphasized that fuel supply stability is critical to sustaining Zambia’s economic growth, and warned that any management lapses or deliberate disruptions would be met with firm action.

“We will not tolerate any obstruction to progress. The delivery of essential services must be consistent and reliable,” Chikote stated.

The Minister’s remarks come in response to recent reports of fuel shortages, despite government assurances that adequate stocks are available. His visit signals a push for greater accountability and tighter supervision within the energy sector.

At a courtesy call earlier in the day at the Copperbelt Provincial Administration, Chikote also highlighted the government’s accelerated investments in solar energy as part of efforts to mitigate load-shedding, expressing confidence that the power supply situation will stabilize by year-end.

Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo, who accompanied the tour, pledged to maintain close oversight of operations at both facilities to ensure efficiency and reliability in the fuel supply chain.

Also present was a delegation from the Energy Regulation Board (ERB), led by Chairperson Mr. James Banda, reinforcing the regulatory commitment to transparency and performance monitoring.