Matola Applauds Nocma for Utilizing Railway Transport
Minister of Energy Honourable Ibrahim Matola has commended the National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) on the arrival of the inaugural block train transporting petroleum products from Nacala to Lilongwe, highlighting that this will reduce transportation costs and improve the efficiency of petroleum distribution in the country.
The Minister made the remarks in Lilongwe at the NOCMA Kanengo Depot, where he received 16 wagons of petroleum products.
“This marks the resurrection of transportation over the 988-kilometer route, after 21 years,” said Matola.
Matola further assured Malawians that his ministry’s efforts will continue, with plans to extend services from Beira Port to Blantyre.
Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Colleen Zamba, who is also the board chair for NOCMA, said this initiative is a testament to President Lazarus Chakwera’s vision of transforming the country.
In his remarks, NOCMA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Clement Kanyama emphasized the benefits of railway transport for petroleum, including the capacity to carry 40,000 liters per wagon compared to a 38,000 liters truck, and ensuring the safety of goods over long distances.
He also says the restoration of the service will bring efficiency to the transportation of fuel into the country and commended the Nacala Logistics company for facilitating the smooth transportation of petroleum from Nacala to Lilongwe.
