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The Petroleum Bulk Procurement Agency (PBPA) says Tanzania’s bulk procurement system has strengthened the country’s position as a key oil supply hub for East and Central Africa, boosting regional trade and increasing the contribution of the energy sector to the national economy.
Speaking during the National Farmers’ Exhibition, popularly known as Nanenane, in Dodoma, PBPA Petroleum Engineer Rehema Mahundi said that, in addition to ensuring a reliable supply of petroleum products for the domestic market, the agency has enabled neighbouring countries to benefit from Tanzania’s port and fuel supply infrastructure.
«“Through the bulk procurement system, Tanzania is not only meeting its domestic fuel requirements but is also serving neighbouring countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Malawi and Zambia. This makes the country an important hub for petroleum trade in our region,” Mahundi said.»
She explained that PBPA oversees the bulk procurement process through international competitive tenders conducted every month, with procurement contracts prepared based on projected fuel requirements for the following two months.
According to Mahundi, the system has helped address fuel supply challenges while enabling the Government to plan national petroleum requirements more efficiently.
«“We plan fuel imports in advance based on actual market requirements. This ensures that petroleum products remain available and that production, transportation and business activities are not disrupted,” she said.»
She noted that the bulk procurement system has also increased transparency in the petroleum sector by enabling the Government to maintain accurate information on fuel stocks available in the country, incoming supplies and expected deliveries, thereby improving sector management.
Mahundi said a reliable supply of petroleum products is essential for the growth of key economic sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, transportation and tourism, all of which depend heavily on energy to conduct their operations.
She added that PBPA would continue improving the bulk procurement system to ensure Tanzania remains a reliable gateway for petroleum distribution across East and Central Africa, while contributing to the implementation of the National Development Vision 2050.
Mahundi also urged members of the public to visit the PBPA exhibition stand during Nanenane to learn more about the agency’s responsibilities and how the bulk procurement system contributes to the economic development of Tanzania and neighbouring countries.
