IN a bid to improve energy services and infrastructure across their respective countries, the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) and the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) of Zambia have agreed to deepen their cooperation.

The two regulatory bodies have recognised the need for closer collaboration in key economic sectors to boost the efficiency and safety of energy services.

During a meeting held on Monday at the ERB offices in Lusaka, it was announced that EWURA and ERB will soon sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise their partnership.

The agreement aims to enhance bilateral cooperation in areas such as the exchange of technical knowledge, economic and infrastructure data, professional capacity building, and sharing of best practices in regulatory affairs.

EWURA board chairman Prof. Mark Mwandosya expressed his satisfaction with the progress made through the existing partnership between the two institutions.

He highlighted the significant impact the collaboration has already had on the regulation of the petroleum, natural gas, and electricity sectors in both countries.

“The cooperation between EWURA and ERB has already delivered notable successes in regulating key sectors that are critical to the economic development of both Tanzania and Zambia. By aligning our regulatory frameworks and practices, we are ensuring that our energy sectors are safer, more efficient, and more sustainable,” Prof. Mwandosya said.

He explained that one of the major achievements of their collaboration has been their joint inspection efforts on the Tanzania Zambia Mafuta (TAZAMA) pipeline, which runs between Tanzania and Zambia.

The inspection, which focuses on ensuring safety standards and operational efficiency, has not only strengthened the security of the vital piece of infrastructure but has also underscored the shared commitment of both countries to maintain high regulatory standards.

“Through the partnership, we have demonstrated our collective determination to enhance the safety and operational effectiveness of vital infrastructure. The TAZAMA pipeline inspection serves as a shining example of our commitment to quality regulation and cooperation in the region,” Prof. Mwandosya said.

James Banda, ERB board chairman, stressed that the partnership between the two regulatory bodies represents a key milestone in advancing the energy sectors in both countries.

He emphasised that the signing of the MoU will not only strengthen their regulatory practices but also improve the delivery of energy services, which is essential for national economic growth.

He said the new agreement is expected to foster closer ties between Tanzania and Zambia, enhancing cross-border collaboration on energy projects and regulatory initiatives.

The exchange of expertise and data between EWURA and ERB is also anticipated to pave the way for more streamlined processes in the energy sectors of both countries.

The signing of the MoU is expected to take place in the coming months, with both regulatory bodies optimistic that the formalisation of their cooperation will yield tangible benefits for energy stakeholders and citizens in both Tanzania and Zambia.