Malawi Secures Direct Fuel Imports from Middle East

Government-to-Government Strategy Ends Prolonged Shortages

Malawi has successfully received its inaugural fuel shipment directly from the Middle East, a landmark achievement under President Lazarus Chakwera’s administration. This new government-to-government (G2G) strategy marks a significant stride in combating persistent fuel scarcity that has hampered the nation.

Strategic Partnership Eases Supply Chain

The arrival of the vessel MT Virgo at Tanga Port in Tanzania on July 8, 2025, carrying 50 million liters of petrol and diesel, was confirmed by Malawi’s High Commissioner to Tanzania, Andrew Kumwenda. The fuel is now being transported into Malawi via a newly established direct supply route.

Kumwenda hailed the arrangement as a “game-changer,” emphasizing the crucial support from the Tanzanian government in providing access to Tanga Port. Tanker trucks have already begun crossing the border into Malawi, signaling a tangible impact on the ground.

Corruption-Free Procurement a Key Goal

This direct engagement with Middle Eastern suppliers, personally championed by President Chakwera, aims to dismantle reliance on intermediaries. These previous dealings were often marred by high costs and inconsistent supplies, contributing to the ongoing crisis. The new G2G model is designed to foster transparency, ensure accountability, and bolster national energy security.

“This G2G arrangement is a game-changer. The Tanzanian government’s support in granting us access to Tanga Port has made this possible, and we’re already seeing fuel tankers cross into Malawi.”

—Andrew Kumwenda, High Commissioner to Tanzania

The initiative is intended not just as a one-time solution but as the foundation for a sustainable strategy to stabilize Malawi’s fuel availability. This stabilization is anticipated to invigorate the economy and rebuild confidence in the country’s procurement systems.

Nation Anticipates Return to Normalcy

With fuel actively entering the country, filling stations are expected to normalize operations in the coming days. This development offers much-needed relief to Malawian citizens and businesses who have endured months of fuel shortages. The success of this strategy is viewed as a testament to President Chakwera‘s commitment to addressing pressing national issues with tangible solutions.

As distribution commences, the National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) and the Ministry of Energy will oversee the efficient and equitable management of the fuel supply. This new G2G fuel deal signifies a potential turning point, heralding the end of the fuel crisis and the establishment of a more robust supply network.

Malawi’s move towards direct fuel sourcing mirrors efforts by other African nations to improve energy security. For instance, Kenya’s direct crude oil import program, initiated in 2023, aimed to stabilize pump prices and reduce foreign exchange strain by securing supply directly from producers in the Middle East.Business Daily Africa, 2023