By Yewo Munthali
Vice President Dr Michael Usi convened a high-level meeting with stakeholders in Malawi’s fuel procurement and supply chain to address the delayed arrival of 31 million litres of fuel stranded in Tanga, Tanzania.
The fuel is part of a larger 51 million litre shipment secured through a government-to-government agreement made earlier this year.
Speaking Thursday at Capital Hill in Lilongwe, Usi described the meeting as a fruitful discussion.
“We had a list of suggested solutions that the stakeholders brought forward, and after rigorous discussions we have landed on one solution. I am satisfied with the results of the meeting, and implementation of this solution is effective immediately,” he said.
The Vice President assured Malawians that government is not turning a blind eye to the fuel crisis.
“We need fuel in Malawi, and we need to ensure its inflow is not disrupted. We are aware that there are issues and when they arise, we will discuss and find solutions,” he said.
Speaking to the Nation on Wednesday, Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) Consumer Affairs and Public Relations Manager, Fitina Khonje, pledged compliance with the presidential directive and emphasized the sector’s willingness to step up its efforts to navigate the logistical challenges being faced.
The panel comprised of key officials, including Minister of Energy, Ibrahim Matola; Secretary for Energy, Alfonso Chikuni; National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) Chief Executive Officer, Clement Kanyama and a representative from MERA.
The meeting follows a previous gathering held on Tuesday, where stakeholders were tasked with finding solutions to the fuel crisis within a 48-hour time frame, as mandated by President Lazarus Chakwera.
