Chiengi, Zambia – April 2026 – The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has announced a major milestone in expanding fuel access to rural parts of Zambia after granting Luapula Oils Limited authority to operate a newly constructed service station in Chiengi District.
The development marks the opening of Chiengi’s first-ever service station, a move expected to significantly reduce fuel challenges faced by residents and businesses in the area.
Chiengi Residents Previously Travelled 135 Kilometres for Fuel
According to the ERB, the opening of the new service station is a breakthrough for the district, which has long struggled with limited access to fuel services.
Before this development, residents in Chiengi had to travel nearly 135 kilometres to Nchelenge District just to purchase fuel, a situation that often resulted in high transport costs and delays in economic activities.
The ERB says the new filling station is part of its broader commitment to ensuring energy services reach rural and fuel-deficit communities.
New Fuel Station Built to National Safety Standards
The ERB further revealed that the new facility is a containerized refuelling station, constructed strictly in line with the Zambian Standard known as:
The Petroleum Industry Code of Practice: Part 4 Aboveground Containerized Tank Installation.
The board stated that the service station fully complies with safety requirements and meets key standards for:
Product quality assurance
Environmental protection
Occupational health and safety
Secure fuel handling and storage
The ERB emphasized that the facility was developed under strict regulation to ensure it provides reliable fuel services while protecting the environment and surrounding communities.
ERB Reaffirms Commitment to Rural Energy Access
The ERB said the Chiengi service station project demonstrates its continued dedication to expanding energy access throughout Zambia, particularly in underserved areas.
The board reiterated that rural communities must not be left behind in national development, especially when fuel access directly impacts transportation, agriculture, trade, and service delivery.
Public Encouraged to Engage ERB on Filling Station Requirements
The ERB has encouraged members of the public and investors interested in setting up filling stations in unserved areas to visit the ERB website or offices for guidance on licensing requirements.
For more information, citizens are advised to visit the ERB website or ERB offices located in:
Lusaka
Kitwe
Livingstone
Kasama
The statement was issued by Namukolo Kasumpa (Mrs.), ERB Manager – Public Relations.
Boost for Local Development in Chiengi
The new fuel station is expected to enhance development in Chiengi District by improving transport efficiency, reducing fuel shortages, and supporting economic activities such as fishing, farming, and cross-border trade in the Luapula region.
With the opening of the service station, Chiengi residents can now access fuel within the district, a move likely to stimulate growth and improve everyday life.
