Oil & Gas

The Ministry of Energy in Malawi has announced its decision to utilize Tanga Port in Tanzania for emergency fuel procurement. This shift is driven by severe congestion at the traditional ports of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Beira and Nacala in Mozambique. Energy Minister Ibrahim Matola emphasized that this move is essential to ensuring stable fuel availability and maintaining the country’s strategic reserves.

Minister Matola highlighted that delays at the usual ports could have stretched into months, worsening Malawi’s fuel supply issues. By leveraging Tanga Port, the government aims to expedite fuel deliveries and alleviate the supply pressures currently facing the nation. This strategic adjustment underscores Malawi’s commitment to efficiently managing its fuel imports during critical times.

The announcement coincided with the arrival of over 51 million litres of fuel procured from the United Arab Emirates through a Government-to-Government arrangement. Matola personally inspected the offloading process, reaffirming the government’s resolve to maintain consistent fuel availability. The minister also stressed the importance of Malawi’s strategic reserves, which have a combined capacity of 60 million litres, in cushioning the nation against potential supply disruptions.

Looking ahead, the government plans to balance emergency measures with sustainable procurement strategies. While the current arrangement addresses immediate needs, Matola confirmed that open-tender processes will continue to be the standard for future fuel acquisitions. The decision to utilize Tanga Port demonstrates the government’s proactive stance in tackling logistical challenges and stabilizing the country’s fuel market.