Strategic Collaboration
.... Zambia Engages Dangote Refinery for Energy Independence
By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia - 24 -02 -2025 - Zambia is actively pursuing a strategic partnership with Dangote Petroleum Refinery in Nigeria to enhance its fuel security, competitive pricing, and supply stability.
In a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary for Technical Services in the Ministry of Energy, Peter Mumba, it was revealed that Hon. Makozo Chikote engaged in high-level discussions with Dangote to explore areas of mutual cooperation and gain insights into the transformative impact of Africa's largest refinery.
During the meeting, Mr. Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), outlined the refinery's immense production capacity, stating, "This refinery is designed to meet 100% of Nigeria's energy needs and aims to serve the broader African market under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework," with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day (bpd).
Chikote reiterated the Zambian government's commitment to enhancing fuel affordability and energy security, noting, "Currently, Zambia relies entirely on private-sector petroleum imports."
He explained that, due to its landlocked status, Zambia imports fuel through regional ports such as Dar es Salaam, Beira, and Walvis Bay.
"The partnership with Dangote Refinery presents a significant opportunity to diversify supply routes, reduce import costs, and ensure a stable fuel supply for the nation," he emphasized.
Furthermore, Chikote stressed the importance of intra-continental investments, asserting, "Africa must leverage these investments to reduce dependence on external markets."
He expressed optimism that Dangote’s refinery could play a crucial role in addressing Zambia’s energy challenges and lowering fuel prices to stimulate economic growth.
"We are actively seeking partnerships to reduce fuel costs and improve our strategic fuel reserves," he stated.
The Minister also highlighted the potential of developing alternative supply routes, particularly through Walvis Bay in Namibia, which has a 70,000-metric-ton storage facility.
"This would enhance Zambia's energy security by bolstering its fuel reserves, given the advantageous two-day transit time from Lagos to Walvis Bay," he explained.
Minister Chikote was accompanied by a delegation that included the Chairman of the Energy Regulation Board (ERB), Mr. James Banda; Projects Delivery Manager Cuthbert Munankwenka; and the Acting Director of Petroleum at the Ministry of Energy, Ms. Florence Kambikambi.
He underscored the government’s commitment to pursuing this strategic partnership to bolster Zambia's energy sector and ensure sustainable fuel supply for the future.
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