Cabinet Approves New Pipelines to Strengthen Zambia’s Fuel Supply

Zambia’s Cabinet has approved two regional pipeline projects aimed at diversifying petroleum supplies and strengthening the country’s energy security as domestic fuel demand continues to grow.

The Tanzania-Zambia Multi-Products Pipeline and the Namibia-Zambia Refined Petroleum and Natural Gas Pipeline will both be developed through public-private partnerships. The projects are intended to provide alternative sources of petroleum products alongside the existing TAZAMA pipeline.

Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa said Zambia’s growing population and expanding industries have increased demand for petroleum products, particularly in the transport and industrial sectors. Annual demand is projected to reach about 3.7 million tonnes by 2030.

The Government expects the additional infrastructure to improve security of supply, support more stable petroleum prices and strengthen Zambia’s position within the regional energy market.

Cabinet also approved a shareholding structure for the new Tanzania-Zambia pipeline, though further details were not disclosed.

The projects form part of efforts to expand Zambia’s fuel import infrastructure as energy requirements increase. If successfully implemented, the additional supply routes could reduce the country’s dependence on existing infrastructure while improving the reliability and resilience of petroleum supplies for businesses and consumers.