President Hakainde Hichilema had called on Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to use their international networks to maintain fuel supply continuity amid the conflict in the Middle East.
Speaking during an urgent meeting with OMCs today, President Hichilema also directed the Ministry of Energy to work closely with industry stakeholders on short, medium, and long-term solutions to secure stable and affordable petroleum supplies.
“We do not believe in conflict. Instability anywhere is instability everywhere,” President Hichilema stated.
He stressed that Zambia’s economic gains, including successful debt restructuring, drought response, and sustained growth, must be defended against external shocks beyond the country’s control.
“Since August 2021, we have worked hard to turn around the country’s economic situation, and we have made real progress. We restructured the debt, we confronted the drought, and the energy sector has been central to this growth agenda,” he said. “We are now in a better position and must consolidate this growth. But just as we begin consolidation, war has erupted in the Middle East.”
The Head of State noted that emergency measures put in place during the drought period remain available and can be applied to the current situation.
Meanwhile, President Hichilema issued a firm warning against fuel hoarding, following reports of artificial shortages at some filling stations despite the country having adequate stocks of petroleum products.
“The government will use all available powers to protect consumers from market manipulation,” he said.
And National Oil Marketing Association Vice President Pinchi Simukwai confirmed that the industry is engaging with the government to manage the impact of the conflict.
“Zambia faces unavoidable pressure from disruptions to global supply chains, freight costs, and crude oil price volatility,” he noted.
According to a statement issued by State House Chief Communications Specialist, Clayson Hamasaka, the meeting was aimed at protecting Zambian consumers from rising global fuel prices resulting from Middle East conflict, drawing on powers to respond to the developing situation.
