Mozambique’s Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Estevão Rafael Pale, has officially inaugurated the new Board of Directors of the National Petroleum Products Acquisition Company (ENAPP). The newly appointed members are João Francisco Macandja and Teodomiro Correia Sarmento, both of whom have over 30 years of experience in the fuel industry.
During the ceremony, Minister Pale explained that the appointments were made at a challenging time for the international community, particularly due to tensions in the Middle East and their effects on the global economy.
He emphasised that liquid fuels are essential to Mozambique’s socio-economic growth, as they contribute to economic development, generate revenue and support important sectors such as transportation, agriculture and industry.
The minister further stated that the government’s main priority is to ensure the consistent availability and nationwide distribution of petroleum products. He also highlighted the importance of creating strategic fuel reserves to protect the country against unexpected external disruptions.
The newly appointed board members were tasked with improving transparency and competition in the procurement of petroleum products, addressing weaknesses in the previous system and reducing prolonged delays involving fuel vessels. These measures are expected to minimise financial losses and reduce the country’s expenditure of foreign currency.
Additionally, the board is expected to promote transparent management practices, reduce the effects of external economic shocks and prioritise local production where possible to encourage sustainable development. The minister also stressed the importance of investing in human capital, describing employees as one of an institution’s most valuable resources.
In conclusion, Minister Pale expressed confidence that the new leadership would make ENAPP’s petroleum procurement processes more transparent and competitive, while improving the overall efficiency of Mozambique’s fuel sector.
