The Government of Zambia is issuing international tender for oil exploration in 40 blocks in 10 provinces in the country, the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development revealed.

According to the Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Christopher Yaluma (photo), bids were issued after samples collected in 2007 confirmed traces of oil. He said initial geological surveys carried out in the provinces confirmed the existence of oil, therefore the government decided to issue international tenders for companies to explore for oil in the 40 blocs.

He noted that the government had previous issued nine licences for oil and gas exploration.

“We have received proposals from investors in Uganda, Kenya, Ghana and other countries... I met with prominent investors dealing in oil and gas at the recent investment conference in London and they are keen to invest in the Zambian petroleum sector,” Yaluma told Xinhuanet news.

The Minister added that submission of bids will end on April 15, 2016, stating that the bidders are to exhibit a proven ability to gather the necessary funds, assets, machinery, equipment, and technical expertise to explore, produce, sell and dispose of petroleum in an environmentally-viable way.

Anita Fatunji