FUEL SUPPLY GUARANTEE: TZ takes proactive steps

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA has taken proactive measures to ensure an uninterrupted fuel supply by securing additional reserves for future use.

The current stock is sufficient to meet demand through July 2026, while the newly procured supply will cover requirements from August onwards.

Speaking yesterday during a visit to fuel depots in Dar es Salaam, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Energy in charge of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dr James Mataragio, reassured the public that the country is well prepared to deal with the matter.

“As you may have seen in recent media reports, the minister has reassured the public about the country’s fuel supply. Tanzania currently has sufficient reserves to last until around July,” Dr Mataragio said.

He added: “Furthermore, we have already ordered additional fuel, and we continue to make every effort to ensure sufficient supply even beyond that period.”

He explained that Tanzania previously relied heavily on fuel imports passing through the Strait of Hormuz and several Middle Eastern countries, which are now affected by ongoing conflicts, damaged refineries, and targeted infrastructure. India, another key supplier, has also faced crude oil supply challenges, contributing to potential shortages.

The purpose of the visit, Dr Mataragio said, was to personally verify stock levels and examine distribution processes to ensure fuel reaches service stations on time.

“We are aware of complaints about some stations not receiving fuel promptly, and reports of delays in loading tankers. Our aim is to ensure that fuel is not only sufficient but also dispatched efficiently,” he added.

Representatives from the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) accompanied the Permanent Secretary to address claims that permit processing caused oil tankers’ delays.

“We are here to confirm that such claims are unfounded, and we are also working on any remaining challenges,” Dr Mataragio said.

Dr Mataragio emphasised that fuel distribution and stock monitoring are being closely coordinated.

“We are verifying depot stock levels and observing how fuel moves from these depots to service stations across the country. This is critical to ensure fuel reaches the public on time and to eliminate unnecessary delays in tanker dispatch,” he said.

Director General of the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA), Dr James Andilile supported the Permanent Secretary, saying “Our presence here is not because of any problem, but as key stakeholders in the national fuel distribution system.

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Despite global supply challenges, the government took immediate proactive action to ensure that fuel availability remains stable.” He urged the public to remain calm and avoid panic buying.

“Fuel is sufficient, and the government monitors the situation daily across the country,” he said, acknowledging rising import costs due to global price fluctuations, insurance, and freight charges.

General Manager of Camel Oil, Saleh Bajber, representing the private sector, expressed confidence in continued service.

“We have enough reserves and are prepared for the next two to three months to ensure smooth supply. For instance, in April, we expect over 70 million litres for our depots, and in May, we have already ordered more than 84 million litres according to our distribution plan. By March 25, we had already delivered over 44 million litres and are processing an additional 5 million litres,” he said.

Tanzania Petrol Station Operators Association (TAPSOA) also highlighted its role in stabilising the sector with its Secretary General, Tino Mmasy, saying “Our members are working closely with the government to ensure smooth distribution.

This collaboration reassures the public and maintains market stability.” He said with these measures in place, Tanzanians are assured that fuel shortages will not disrupt daily life, even as global markets remain volatile.