Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has appointed Makozo Chikote as minister of the newly created Ministry of Petroleum following parliamentary approval of a government restructuring aimed at improving efficiency.
Chikote, the member of parliament for Luampa East, previously served as minister of energy and minister of fisheries and livestock during Hichilema’s first term.
As energy minister, he oversaw the implementation of government energy programmes, including the president’s 1,000-megawatt solar power initiative. During his tenure, Zambia’s installed electricity generation capacity rose to 4,722 megawatts from 3,777 megawatts in 2024.
In his new role, Chikote is expected to oversee the establishment of the petroleum ministry and coordinate its operations.
At Chikote’s swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday, Hichilema urged him to prioritise the development of oil pipelines linking Zambia with Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Harare in Zimbabwe.
“Let’s work on establishing the new oil pipelines from Dar es Salaam to Zambia and Harare to Zambia,” Hichilema said.
Chikote holds a bachelor’s degree in administration from the University of Zambia and a certificate in public relations and diplomatic practice.
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