New Fuel Measurement System Adopted



Nkobeni Clarifies Fuel Tanker Measurement Update Secondary Reference Tool Introduced for Cross-Border Tanker Trucks

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka, Zambia24 – (24 February 2026) – Dip sticks and charts certified by the Weights and Measures Agency of Tanzania will be recognized as secondary/reference measuring instruments on tanker trucks engaged in the cross-border importation of fuel into Zambia. 

The Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA) Executive Director Humphrey Nkobeni told Zambia24 in a statement that these tools will complement temperature-compensating bulk flow meters, which remain the primary and legally binding instruments for fuel measurement.

Mr. Nkobeni said that bulk flow meters verified under the Metrology Act No. 6 of 2017 will continue as the main method for determining fuel quantities at points of custody transfer in Zambia.

The secondary measurement system follows the signing of a Mutual Recognition Framework Agreement (MRFA) between ZMA and the Weights and Measures Agency of Tanzania on 10 December 2025, aimed at strengthening cross-border fuel trade measurement and harmonising regional metrology practices.

Mr. Nkobeni noted that the dip stick/chart method was previously not used in Zambia due to the absence of a domestic calibration facility. He added that ZMA will conduct inter-comparisons with Tanzania to ensure traceability and confidence in fuel trade measurements.

He emphasised that the secondary system applies only to cross-border fuel imports, while local tanker trucks will continue using bulk flow meters and ullage mark systems.

 Mr. Nkobeni also highlighted that Zambia mainly uses bottom-loading systems, whereas Tanzania relies on top-loading systems, assuring that measurement accuracy will be maintained.

He concluded by reaffirming ZMA’s commitment to accuracy, fairness, and transparency in the petroleum supply chain and encouraged stakeholders to contact the agency for clarification.

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