Fuel Shortage Update: TAM Explains Causes and Solutions

The Transporters Association of Malawi (TAM) has attributed the ongoing fuel shortage in parts of the country to a number of manageable issues, assuring the public that solutions are already underway.

TAM Chairperson Frank Banda said the situation, while concerning, is not beyond control. “The fuel crisis being experienced in some areas is due to a few logistical challenges, but none of them are insurmountable,” he said in an interview.

He pointed to a dispute between one of the National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA)’s suppliers and the Tanzania Revenue Authority as a key contributor. “A supplier for NOCMA had issues with the Tanzania Revenue Authority and was suspended from loading until two weeks ago,” Banda explained. “That suspension created a temporary gap in the supply chain, but the matter has now been resolved.”

Another factor, according to Banda, was congestion at the Dar es Salaam Port in Tanzania. “There was huge congestion at the port. Some countries had issues with the port authorities, which affected the loading process,” he said.

He emphasized that the port serves multiple African nations, which compounds the impact of any delays. “The port is used by several countries including Malawi, the DRC, and Zambia, so when one importer faces challenges, it affects the whole system. Fortunately, the issue was sorted out last Thursday, and loading resumed immediately,” Banda stated.

He added that the first batch of 50 trucks has already started arriving in Malawi. “Another 50 trucks will leave Tanzania today, Wednesday,” he said. “In addition, we have sent 150 trucks to Dar es Salaam to load fuel and we anticipate a much faster process going forward.”

Banda also addressed fuel deliveries from Mozambique. “Trucks that were stuck at the Beira Port due to forex issues have started arriving. Over 50 were delayed, but that issue has been successfully resolved,” he said. “So far, 20 trucks have arrived and more are on the way.”

Looking ahead, Banda shared TAM’s ongoing efforts to stabilize the fuel supply. “We have deployed almost 80 trucks to load for Petroleum Importers Limited, and another 100 trucks will load for NOCMA on Thursday,” he said. “We are confident that these measures will significantly ease the fuel shortage.”

Banda concluded by encouraging Malawians to remain calm. “We want to assure the public that the situation is under control. Fuel supplies will stabilize soon,” he said.