ZMA Tightens Fuel Pump Checks

Agency intensifies statutory inspections to ensure legal measurement compliance in the petroleum sector.

Lusaka, Zambia24  - 17July 2025 – The Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA) has officially launched Phase Two of its nationwide statutory verification exercise targeting fuel dispensing instruments, in a move aligned with its legal mandate to enforce accuracy, fairness, and transparency in trade measurements.

The launch, held at Puma Filling Station on Musi-o-Tunya Road in Lusaka, marks a critical step in ZMA’s ongoing efforts to regulate measurement systems in line with the Metrology Act No. 6 of 2017. 

This Act mandates ZMA to ensure that all measuring instruments used in commercial transactions meet established national standards.

ZMA Executive Director Humphrey Nkobeni said the exercise is not just a routine activity but a legal obligation necessary to uphold trade integrity and protect consumers in the petroleum sector.

“In the petroleum sector, the accuracy of every litre dispensed directly impacts consumer rights, business sustainability, and government revenue,” Nkobeni said. 

“This verification programme is central to our statutory role and ensures that all stakeholders operate within the framework of legal metrology.”

The second phase of the programme will see ZMA deploy qualified engineers and inspectors to all provinces and districts to inspect and verify fuel pumps at service stations. 

These inspections aim to confirm that each fuel dispenser complies with national measurement standards.

Nkobeni emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Agency, licensed technician firms, and oil marketing companies (OMCs), noting that such partnerships are vital for nationwide compliance and enforcement.

“In 2024, we conducted 15,756 verifications,” he said. 

“This year, we expect to exceed 20,000 checks due to the growing number of service stations across Zambia.”

Beyond equipment checks, ZMA plans to roll out training programmes for fuel station attendants to enhance their capacity in monitoring fuel measurements and ensuring compliance at the point of service.

The Agency is also encouraging consumers to remain vigilant and look for ZMA-issued certification stickers on fuel dispensers, which serve as visible proof that a pump has been tested and approved.

“If the sticker is missing or if you suspect inaccurate measurements, report the matter to ZMA,” Nkobeni urged. 

“Public participation strengthens our oversight and enforcement capabilities.”

The exercise underscores ZMA’s broader mandate to uphold measurement accuracy as a foundation for consumer protection, business growth, and national economic integrity.

Nkobeni concluded by thanking stakeholders from the oil marketing sector, verification firms, and the media for supporting the agency’s efforts.

“Together, let us ensure that every litre dispensed at the pump is accurate, reliable, and fair,” he said.