A technical team from the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute (IRDP), part of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil, and Gas (MIREMPET), has been in Cuando Cubango since last week to promote the construction and renovation of fuel stations to meet growing demand.
The IRDP hosted a seminar for business owners and fuel station operators. IRDP representative Bruno Tito explained that the event aligns with the National Development Plan (PDN) 2023–2027, which aims to enhance the distribution and marketing of petroleum products. Currently, Cuando Cubango has only 12 fuel stations—11 in Menongue and one in Cuito Cuanavale.
Tito expressed concern that the province’s seven other municipalities, including Cuchi, Cuangar, Calai, Dirico, Mavinga, Nancova, and Rivungo, lack any fuel stations, limiting access for motorists, businesses, and residents.
He also announced that the IRDP’s 2024 provincial program began in Cuando Cubango and focuses on four key areas: assessing the petroleum derivatives sector, licensing and inspections, and mapping fuel stations to meet local demand and curb fuel smuggling to Zambia and Namibia.
Afonso Dala, Director of the Provincial Office for Integrated Economic Development, praised the initiative, noting that increased investment in fuel infrastructure could drive economic growth in Cuando Cubango.
However, Dala highlighted that the province’s poor road conditions have deterred potential investors in this sector. Despite being Angola’s second-largest province, Cuando Cubango remains underserved with only 12 fuel stations.
