Dodoma. The minister for Energy, Mr Deugratius Ndejembi, has directed the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (Ewura) to uphold fairness, equality and the rule of law in dealing with investors in the oil sector, warning against any form of favouritism or abuse of power.
He said all regulatory decisions must be guided strictly by laws, procedures and justice, rather than by the names or identities of individual investors, to safeguard a stable and attractive investment environment in the country.
Mr Ndejembi issued the directive on December 19, 2025, in Dodoma during a meeting with Ewura leaders and senior officials, held as part of his introductory engagements and a review of the authority’s ongoing activities.
He noted that complaints had emerged regarding selective enforcement of regulations, particularly against operators of fuel stations, where some outlets were closed over alleged violations while others facing similar challenges continued to operate.
The minister cautioned that such practices undermine confidence in the regulatory system and threaten the broader objective of promoting private investment in the energy sector.
He said misuse of authority to harass or unfairly penalise investors would not be tolerated, adding that disciplinary action would be taken against any official found engaging in such conduct.
Mr Ndejembi described Ewura as a strategic institution whose work is closely linked to national security and economic stability, stressing the need for its staff to place national interests at the centre of their duties.
He also underlined the importance of strengthening national fuel reserves to ensure preparedness in the event of emergencies, while at the same time supporting the expansion and efficiency of the oil supply network across the country.
In addition, the minister called on Ewura staff to demonstrate high standards of accountability and integrity, saying the ministry would not shield any employee who violates laws, regulations or public service ethics.
Earlier, the Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy, who is also the Commissioner for Electricity and Renewable Energy, Eng Innocent Luoga, commended Ewura’s management for its role in supporting the growth of the oil sector.
He said the ministry would continue to work closely with its institutions to ensure that directives and priority programmes set by President Samia Suluhu Hassan are implemented effectively.
On his part, Ewura director general, Dr James Andilile, said the authority had continued to educate the public on the use of natural gas in vehicles and was working to improve access to petroleum products, particularly in rural areas, as part of efforts to promote inclusive energy access and sectoral growth.
