By Cecilia Chiluba/Zambia/Lusaka
Zambia’s Cabinet has approved the construction of two major petroleum pipeline projects under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements, a move designed to provide the country with alternative sources of petroleum products to complement the existing TAZAMA pipeline.
Chief Government Spokesperson, Cornelius Mweetwa, said during a meeting held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Cabinet authorized the development of the Tanzania–Zambia Multi-Products Pipeline, including the proposed shareholding structure for the new Tanzania–Zambia pipeline company.
He added that Cabinet also approved the construction of the Namibia–Zambia Refined Petroleum and Natural Gas Pipeline under a PPP framework.
Mr. Mweetwa explained that the new pipelines are intended to provide Zambia with alternative sources of petroleum products to complement the existing TAZAMA Pipelines Limited infrastructure.
“As the nation’s population continues to grow and industries expand, the dependence on petroleum products for transportation and industry has grown significantly,” he said.
The Minister noted that demand for petroleum products is projected to reach approximately 3.7 million tonnes annually by 2030.
“The construction of these pipelines will, therefore, enhance security of supply, ensure stable petroleum products prices and position Zambia as an emerging regional energy hub,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Cabinet also approved the Agreement between Zambia and the Republic of Türkiye on the Avoidance of Double Taxation and Double Non-Taxation.
Mr. Mweetwa said the agreement establishes a formal framework for eliminating double taxation and preventing fiscal evasion on income taxes between the two countries.
“The Agreement will enable both Zambian and Turkish companies an individuals, not to be taxed twice, where income is received by a resident of one country from activities in the other country,” Mr. Mweetwa stated.
He stressed that the Agreement is also expected to promote increased investment flows, particularly in the financial sector, by providing certainty and clarity in tax obligations for investors.
“This will encourage Turkish and Zambian companies to invest in each other’s country especially in the financial sector,” he added.
