The expansion of the Tanzania-Zambia crude oil pipeline, known as the Tazama pipeline, is progressing as a contractor has been selected to conduct feasibility studies. The pipeline, originally built in the 1960s, is set to undergo significant upgrades to increase its capacity to transport up to 5 million tonnes of crude oil annually. Currently, the pipeline carries only 800,000 tonnes per year from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, to Ndola, Zambia.
Economic pressures have driven the need for this expansion, as both Tanzania and Zambia seek more efficient and cost-effective options. The project is expected to be a multi-billion-dollar endeavor, with Tazama Pipeline Ltd. recently presenting a cheque to the Tanzanian government as part of its commitment to the upgrade.
Current Developments in the Tanzania-Zambia Pipeline Expansion
The expansion of the 1,710-kilometer Tanzania-Zambia crude oil pipeline is expected to begin soon. Tazama Pipeline Ltd. Director, Mr. Davison Thawethe, announced that Norplan has been commissioned to conduct the feasibility study, which will include determining the overall cost of the project. He emphasized that constructing a modern pipeline is crucial to supporting economic growth, particularly in response to the rising demand for petroleum products.
Tanzania’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, confirmed that the Tanzanian and Zambian governments are in discussions to increase investment in the Tazama pipeline through their respective energy ministries. In addition to the expansion, plans are underway to construct a new 24-inch pipeline, which is currently in the procurement stage.
