Zambia’s Energy Minister, Makozo Chikote, has warned filling station operators against deliberately withholding fuel in anticipation of possible price increases.
The minister said the government will not tolerate any attempts by fuel retailers to create artificial shortages amid global tensions affecting the petroleum market.
He cautioned that authorities will take stern action against any operators found manipulating supply to exploit the current situation.
Mr. Chikote, however, assured the nation that Zambia’s fuel supply remains stable despite escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East linked to ongoing conflicts.
He said the government, working with the Energy Regulation Board and Tazama Pipelines Limited, is closely monitoring developments in the global oil market to safeguard the country’s energy security.
The minister has also urged fuel dealers to comply with regulations and continue supplying petroleum products normally, warning that any station found hoarding fuel or causing panic buying will face punitive measures.
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