Dar es Salaam. The minister for Energy, Deogratius Ndejembi, has called on the Petroleum Bulk Procurement Agency (PBPA) to ensure the country maintains sufficient fuel reserves to safeguard uninterrupted production, transport, and other essential services that heavily rely on energy.
Speaking at the PBPA offices during a visit on November 25 to engage with leaders of agencies under the Ministry of Energy, Mr Ndejembi emphasised the importance of maintaining adequate fuel stocks to prevent sudden shortages that could drive up costs for both citizens and the private sector and disrupt critical services.
“Ensuring sufficient fuel reserves through investment in storage facilities provides economic stability for the nation. When fuel supply is guaranteed, production, transport, and trade continue without hindrance, boosting investor confidence, reducing emergency costs, and ultimately promoting sustainable economic growth,” Mr Ndejembi said.
Ndejembi also urged PBPA leadership to enhance investment in infrastructure for fuel reception and storage, noting that improved facilities would strengthen safety and product quality for the broader benefit of the nation.
He further stressed the importance of collaborating with private sector stakeholders across the fuel supply chain to expand storage capacity and minimise delays or unexpected shortages.
Earlier, PBPA chief executive officer, Mr Erasto Simon, presented a performance report, highlighting plans to integrate systems aimed at standardising fuel prices across all ports, thereby improving efficiency in fuel distribution.
During the visit, Mr Ndejembi was accompanied by the Ministry of Energy Permanent Secretary, Eng Felchesmi Mramba, along with other ministry experts.
