- Zambia has appointed Makozo Chikote to lead its newly created petroleum ministry, with plans to develop oil pipelines linking the country to Tanzania and Zimbabwe.
- Chikote previously served as energy minister, overseeing programmes that helped raise Zambia’s installed electricity generation capacity to 4,722 megawatts.
Zambia has created a dedicated petroleum ministry as President Hakainde Hichilema pushes to develop oil pipelines linking the country with Tanzania and Zimbabwe.
Hichilema appointed Makozo Chikote to lead the new ministry after parliament approved a government restructuring aimed at improving efficiency.
At Chikote’s swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday, Hichilema stressed the need to advance plans for regional oil transportation infrastructure.
“Let’s work on establishing the new oil pipelines from Dar es Salaam to Zambia and Harare to Zambia,” Hichilema said.
The proposed pipelines could strengthen Zambia’s access to regional petroleum supply routes. However, the government has yet to provide further details on their construction or timelines.
Meanwhile, Chikote brings experience from his previous role as energy minister, where he oversaw programmes to expand electricity generation.
These included Hichilema’s 1,000-megawatt solar power initiative. During Chikote’s tenure, Zambia’s installed electricity generation capacity rose to 4,722 megawatts, from 3,777 megawatts in 2024.
Chikote also previously served as minister of fisheries and livestock. He represents Luampa East in parliament.
In his new role, Chikote will establish the petroleum ministry and coordinate its operations. The restructuring separates petroleum oversight from the broader energy portfolio.
Chikote holds a bachelor’s degree in administration from the University of Zambia. He also holds a certificate in public relations and diplomatic practice.