Dar es Salaam. Malawi has commended Tanzania for sustaining a reliable fuel supply chain through the Port of Dar es Salaam, as regional economies grow increasingly attentive to global energy uncertainties linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Malawi’s Minister for Energy and Mining, Dr Jean Mathanga, on March 24, 2026, toured key petroleum infrastructure at the Kurasini Oil Jetty (KOJ-1).
The facility is a critical entry point for imported fuel into Tanzania and a gateway for land-linked countries in the region.
Dr Mathanga expressed appreciation for Tanzania’s role in facilitating steady fuel flows to Malawi.
She noted that Malawi, being landlocked, depends heavily on neighbouring countries to secure petroleum supplies. Tanzania remains one of its most dependable corridors.
She said the visit aimed to deepen understanding of how petroleum products are received, handled and distributed at the port.
Such insight, he added, is vital for improving Malawi’s procurement systems and strengthening supply planning.
The visit comes at a time when global oil markets remain sensitive to geopolitical developments, particularly the ongoing tensions involving Iran.
Recent instability around key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, has heightened concerns over possible supply disruptions and price volatility.
Energy analysts say such risks underline the importance of resilient regional logistics systems.
For countries without direct access to the sea, dependable infrastructure in transit nations is essential to cushion against external shocks.
In East Africa, Tanzania has positioned itself as a strategic petroleum hub. Its bulk storage facilities, port infrastructure and coordinated import systems support not only domestic demand but also that of neighbouring countries such as Malawi, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Speaking during the tour, the representative of the executive director of the Petroleum Bulk Procurement Agency (PBPA), Mr Bruno Tarimo, said a significant share of fuel destined for Malawi passes through Tanzania under the Bulk Procurement System (BPS).
This coordinated system enables efficient sourcing and distribution of petroleum products.
He added that, at times, Malawi also procures fuel directly from its own suppliers.
However, Tanzania’s infrastructure remains central to ensuring smooth transit and storage.
The Kurasini Oil Jetty, located within the Port of Dar es Salaam, handles large volumes of petroleum imports. It plays a pivotal role in safeguarding energy security for the wider region.
As global uncertainties persist, regional cooperation in energy logistics is expected to become increasingly important.
Officials say strengthening infrastructure and coordination mechanisms will be key to maintaining stable supply chains and shielding economies from external disruptions.
