LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) and the National Oil Company of Malawi Limited (NOCMA) have assured the public of steady fuel availability in the coming months.
A total of 160 million litres has already been procured for September and October 2025.
Speaking at a joint press briefing at the Central Office of Information in Lilongwe on Friday evening, MERA Chief Executive Officer Henry Kachaje said the Authority remains committed to ensuring uninterrupted fuel supply despite growing demand.
He revealed that a vessel carrying 48 million litres of both petrol and diesel is already en route to Malawi.
In addition, 56 million litres of petrol and 57 million litres of diesel have already been secured.
Kachaje explained that MERA is relying on both Government-to-Government (G-to-G) agreements and open tender systems to stabilize supply.
He noted that fuel volumes procured this year are 27 percent higher than the total imported in 2024.
The MERA boss warned filling station operators against hoarding and other malpractices.
He stressed that MERA has the legal authority to suspend or revoke licences for non-compliance.
“Every licensee must ensure that their employees fully understand and abide by these regulations,” said Kachaje.
“Any violation will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” he added.
He disclosed that 18 filling stations and one oil marketing company have already been suspended for possessing over 200,000 litres of fuel without authorization.
He further announced that, effective September 1, oil companies will not be allowed to supply fuel to filling stations that lack CCTV surveillance systems.
Secretary for Energy Engineer Alfonso Chikuni outlined government’s long-term plans to strengthen fuel security.
He said that since adopting the G-to-G model in October 2024, Malawi has engaged Oman and Abu Dhabi as supply partners.
Chikuni added that the country has harmonized diesel specifications with the region to enhance storage capacity at Nacala.
He emphasized that government is working closely with Mozambique to expand infrastructure along the Nacala Corridor.
This expansion, he said, will increase storage and offloading capacity both at the ports and inland depots in Blantyre and Lilongwe.
Chikuni urged Malawians to safeguard national fuel supplies.
He lamented reports that some traders are exporting fuel to neighbouring countries.
“Our appeal to Malawians is to be patriotic and protect this strategic commodity,” said Chikuni.
Currently, Malawi has 378 licensed filling stations across the country.
Analysis
The procurement of 160 million litres of fuel demonstrates government’s effort to address shortages and stabilize supply.
By securing additional volumes and increasing procurement by 27 percent compared to last year, Malawi is clearly prioritizing energy security.
However, challenges such as hoarding, smuggling, and infrastructure limitations remain serious threats.
MERA’s crackdown on non-compliant filling stations shows a tougher stance on regulation.
Meanwhile, long-term partnerships with Oman and Abu Dhabi, combined with expanded capacity along the Nacala Corridor, provide hope for a more sustainable solution.
For lasting stability, government must not only procure fuel but also enforce discipline in distribution and instill patriotism among citizens.
Only then will the country move away from recurring shortages and the damaging economic disruptions they cause.