Zambia has signed a landmark agreement to construct a $1.1 billion crude oil refinery and energy complex in Ndola, within the country’s Copperbelt Province. The project is expected to significantly reduce Zambia’s dependence on fuel imports and strengthen its energy infrastructure.
According to reports, the new refinery will have a daily processing capacity of up to 60,000 barrels of crude oil—enough to meet domestic demand and support regional exports.
The project is a collaboration between Zambia’s state-owned Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and China’s Fujian Xiang Xin Corporation. Crude oil will be imported via the port of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania.
Construction is slated to begin in the third quarter of 2025, with commercial operations scheduled for 2026.
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The facility will also include components for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) bottling, lubricant blending, bitumen production, and a 130-megawatt power plant.
The Zambian government estimates that the refinery will save the country millions of dollars annually in fuel import costs.
In a parallel move to bolster its energy security, Zambia has secured an equity stake in Angola’s under-construction Lobito refinery. Located in Benguela Province, the Lobito facility is projected to process up to 200,000 barrels per day upon completion in 2026.
Zambia, along with other private investors, will collectively hold a 70% stake, while Angola’s national oil company Sonangol retains the remaining 30%.
The dual refinery strategy signals Zambia’s long-term vision to become a key player in regional energy markets.
Image Credit: Efficacy News
