Zambia calls for regional oil pipeline integration to boost energy security

“Regional oil pipelines could significantly lower logistics costs, improve the reliability of fuel supplies and enhance the competitiveness of African economies,” Munshifwa said.

He argued that pipeline transportation offered a more efficient and safer alternative to road freight, with potential to cut logistics costs significantly.

“Pipeline transportation offered a more efficient alternative to road freight, with the potential to reduce logistics expenditure by up to 60 percent,” he said.

Munshifwa said investment in cross-border pipelines would de-congest ports such as Dar es Salaam and Beira, reduce carbon emissions and improve turnaround times for fuel imports.

He emphasised the need for transparent and non-discriminatory open-access arrangements to allow licensed oil marketing companies fair access to pipeline capacity.

Munshifwa said such frameworks would promote competition, prevent monopolistic control of strategic infrastructure and attract private investment.

“Harmonised regional regulations, public-private partnerships and modern digital monitoring systems are essential to developing efficient cross-border infrastructure,” he said.

He said regional pipeline integration directly advanced the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by lowering trade costs and improving energy access.

Munshifwa added that government was engaging regional partners and development finance institutions to structure bankable pipeline projects through public-private partnerships.

He said Zambia was committed to working with neighbouring countries to develop harmonised tariff methodologies and safety standards for regional pipelines.

The three-day Energy Forum for Africa has drawn energy ministers, regulators, private sector players and development partners to discuss solutions for accelerating energy integration on the continent.

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