President Hichilema Orders Crackdown on Fuel Hoarding

President Hakainde Hichilema has directed government agencies to take swift action against fuel shortages being reported across Zambia, amid growing suspicions that some entities are deliberately hoarding supplies.

The President expressed serious concern that the shortages have continued despite assurances given by Oil Marketing Companies at a recent State House meeting that fuel stocks were sufficient to meet domestic demand. While acknowledging that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has created global supply pressures, President Hichilema was clear that Zambia holds adequate reserves and that the current situation is not a consequence of genuine scarcity.

"Fuel is the lifeblood of our economy, and any attempt to manipulate its supply amounts to economic sabotage and a breach of the law," the President said.

In response, the Energy Regulation Board has been tasked with launching investigations in coordination with law enforcement agencies. Those found to be undermining the fuel supply chain face serious consequences, including the revocation of their operating licences.

The directive signals the government's determination to protect ordinary Zambians and businesses from the economic disruption caused by artificial shortages. Fuel prices and availability have a direct bearing on the cost of goods, transport, and daily life — making any deliberate manipulation of supply not only unlawful but deeply damaging to the country's development momentum.