Govt begins review of TAZAMA pipeline open access guidelines

The Ministry of Energy has reportedly commenced a review of the Tanzania-Zambia Mafuta (TAZAMA) Pipeline Open Access Framework, aiming to strengthen its operational efficiency and accommodate evolving sector dynamics.

Permanent Secretary, Peter Mumba, said the review was based on operational insights gathered since the framework’s implementation on April 1, 2025, following the issuance of the initial guidelines in December 2024.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Tuesday, Mumba noted that the Open Access Framework was designed to liberalise the petroleum transportation system by enabling third-party access to TAZAMA infrastructure—an effort that has already shown positive results.

“Notably, the successful offloading and market sale of the first diesel consignment under this regime has demonstrated the viability of the Open Access model,” Mumba stated.

He said: “The initiative has increased participation from private players, spurred competition, and improved the pipeline’s utilization.”

Mumba said the government was pleased with the progress but recognized the need to refine the framework to address emerging realities, including stakeholder feedback and the inclusion of more market players in line with the government’s inclusive economic agenda.

Among the review’s focus areas are ensuring a transparent Pre-Qualification Process for Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs), addressing pipeline capacity constraints, and managing cargo volumes, especially with the introduction of the Drag Resistant Agent (DRA) to enhance throughput.

“The Ministry assures the public that this review is being conducted with utmost transparency and accountability. Once finalized, the revised guidelines will be officially published,” he said.

Mumba emphasized the Ministry’s openness to consultations and encouraged feedback from all stakeholders, including OMCs.

He underscored the petroleum sub-sector’s critical role in powering Zambia’s mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and transport sectors, reiterating the importance of the Open Access Framework in supporting a stable, efficient, and affordable fuel supply.

“The Government remains committed to modernizing the sector to support national economic and energy security goals. This review will lay the foundation for a competitive and resilient energy landscape,” Mumba added.

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