Youth Cooperatives Set to Benefit as Nkandu Resolves Fuel Tanker Program Delays
Hon. Elvis Nkandu, Minister of Youth, Sport, and Arts, has assured over 89 youth cooperatives that the Fuel Tanker Empowerment Program is on track to commence operations by the first week of September 2024.
Speaking at a meeting held on August 29, 2024, at the Prince Charles Hotel, Minister Nkandu addressed the challenges that had delayed the program’s rollout, citing licensing procedures required by the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA), the Zambia Meteorological Agency (ZMA), and the Energy Regulation Board (ERB).
The Minister highlighted his proactive efforts to resolve these bottlenecks through multiple meetings with the Ministries of Energy and Transport, leading to significant progress. The registration process for the program is now at an advanced stage, with full operations expected to begin soon.
The meeting was attended by representatives from RTSA, ERB, ZMA, and various Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).
OMC representatives confirmed that their preparations were nearly complete, and that payments to the Ministry and the youth cooperatives would commence once operations begin.
Minister Nkandu assured the youth cooperatives that the Ministry would ensure timely monthly payments to both the truck suppliers and the cooperatives as soon as the fuel tanker trucks become operational.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering young people through this initiative.
Youth and Sport Permanent Secretary, Mr. Kangwa Chileshe, reminded the cooperatives that the project is a partnership and that they would gain full ownership of the fuel tanker trucks once the loans are fully repaid.
A representative of the youth cooperatives expressed gratitude to the Minister for addressing their concerns but called for improved communication between the Ministry, the cooperatives, and the OMCs to ensure smooth coordination as the project moves forward.
