Oil & Gas

The Tanzania–Zambia Crude Oil Pipeline (TAZAMA) is set to transport between 1.2 billion and 1.3 billion litres of fuel annually, following the introduction of a Drag Reduction Agent (DRA) to enhance pipeline efficiency. This innovation, which minimizes turbulence and reduces friction within the pipeline, allows for a smoother flow of fuel. As a result, TAZAMA’s transportation capacity has significantly increased, making it a more efficient and cost-effective solution for fuel transportation between Tanzania and Zambia.

The implementation of DRA has led to a substantial rise in daily fuel transport capacity. During trial phases, fuel flow surged from 2.6 million–2.8 million litres per day to 3.5 million–3.6 million litres per day. This increase represents a major improvement from the previous 700 million litres transported annually, bringing the pipeline closer to meeting Zambia’s fuel demand of 1 billion litres per year. The breakthrough was officially announced by Tanzania’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy, Eng. Felchesmi Mramba, during the DRA launch event in Dar es Salaam.

According to Eng. Mramba, the improved performance of TAZAMA will yield greater economic benefits for both Tanzania and Zambia. He noted that last year, Tanzania alone received approximately 4 billion Tanzanian shillings in dividends from TAZAMA operations. With the new efficiency improvements, even higher returns are expected. He further emphasized that adopting modern technology has proven to be a cost-effective alternative to expanding the pipeline infrastructure, achieving significant progress at a fraction of the cost.

Zambia’s Minister for Energy, Mr. Makozo Chikote, described the DRA launch as a game-changer, enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and overall supply chain improvements. TAZAMA’s Managing Director, Mr. Davidson Mtewete, echoed similar sentiments, stating that the system has already demonstrated remarkable improvements in operations. With the increased transportation capacity, the company is now better positioned to meet and even exceed Zambia’s national diesel demand. The two governments also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties through joint infrastructure projects, including a second fuel pipeline and a major power transmission line.