By Burnett Munthali
The National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) has dismissed allegations circulating on social media that a recent fuel shipment by train, reportedly carrying 1.2 million liters of diesel, was instead transporting molasses.
This comes after President Lazarus Chakwera on Wednesday welcomed the first fuel shipment by rail in 41 years. The historic consignment arrived from Beira, Mozambique, at the Marka border, symbolizing a significant step in Malawi’s efforts to diversify its fuel import routes.
However, shortly after the announcement, rumors spread online suggesting that the train was not carrying diesel, as reported. NOCMA spokesperson Raymond Likambale has swiftly debunked these claims, reiterating that the cargo consisted solely of diesel, not molasses.
In an interview with MIJ FM, Likambale confirmed that over 17 trucks loaded with diesel are expected to offload at NOCMA’s Matindi reserves in Blantyre. He emphasized the company’s commitment to its core mandate of managing oil and gas products in Malawi, stating, “NOCMA is strictly in the business of oil and gas; we do not deal with molasses or any other unrelated products.”
The company has urged the public to disregard the false claims circulating on social media, assuring citizens that the fuel importation process is running smoothly.
This rail shipment marks a notable achievement in addressing Malawi’s fuel challenges, as the nation seeks to improve efficiency in fuel distribution and reduce dependency on road transport alone.
