NDOLA- Government has officially launched the construction of a USD1.1 billion crude oil refinery in Ndola, marking a major milestone in Zambia’s drive to strengthen energy security and industrial growth.
Speaking during the ground-breaking ceremony, Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote said the project is private sector-driven and is being developed by Fujian Xiang Xin Corporation through the Zambia Petrochemical Energy Company (ZPEC), reflecting strong investor confidence in the country’s enabling business environment.
Mr Chikote described the refinery as a transformative project that demonstrates the private sector’s response to policies under the New Dawn Administration led by Hakainde Hichilema.
He said the facility will have a processing capacity of three million metric tonnes per year, equivalent to about 60,000 barrels per day, and is expected to support key sectors such as mining and other high fuel-consuming industries.
The project will generate significant economic benefits, including the creation of over 2,200 jobs during the construction phase, while more than 600 direct and over 2,000 indirect jobs will be sustained once the refinery becomes operational.
Mr Chikote further noted that the integrated energy complex will include liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) bottling, bitumen production and lubricant blending, thereby promoting value addition and stimulating industrial development.
He urged the project developers to prioritise skills transfer and training for Zambians to build local expertise in petrochemical operations, while also encouraging the use of local manpower wherever possible.
Mr Chikote also called on residents of Ndola and the Copperbelt Province to support the project, stating that it has the potential to significantly contribute to economic growth and national development.
Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister Chipoka Mulenga, Copperbelt Province Minister Elisha Matambo and Ministry of Energy Permanent Secretary-Energy Prof Ephraim Munshifwa were among senior government officials who attended the ceremony.