Fuel shortage hits Zambian transporters

Technical problems force closure of refinery
KEVIN MAYHEW
THE FUEL shortage that has hit Zambia after its only refinery was closed for repairs that are behind schedule has seriously affected all Zambian-based transporters, according to the Lusaka-based chairman of the Federation of Roadhauliers (Fedhaul), Roland Norton.
“The issue is very sensitive and people are being sacked because of it,” he said.
It has been reported that the Zambian president, Levy Mwanawasa, sacked Energy Minister George Mpombo amid the crisis that has crippled the Zambian copper mining industry, an essential mainstay of its economy.
The shortages began after technical problems forced the closure of Zambia’s main Indeni Oil Refinery in the Copperbelt, 300 kms north of Lusaka.
Konkola Copper Mines, Zambia’s largest copper mining company, has rationed fuel, mainly at its smelter and furnace which are running at about 50% capacity to keep the plants running.
The Government has announced that it will allow oil marketing companies to import finished products directly to end the crisis until maintenance works at the Indeni refinery are complete.