Puma targets US$11m fuel network expansion

CLOUDINE MATOLA

Puma Energy Zimbabwe plans to invest more than US$10m in expanding its fuel retail network across rural and urban areas over the next five years, Business Times can report.

In an interview, the company said it will construct three rural service stations at an estimated cost of US$500,000 each, while committing over US$10m towards the development of at least 10 new sites in urban locations, towns, and cities nationwide.

“Our plan is to build three rural service stations in the next five years at a cost of US$500,000 per site. In urban locations, towns and cities countrywide, we plan to add a minimum of 10 service stations over the same period, for an investment above US$10m,” the company said.

The expansion drive comes as Puma Energy accelerates efforts to strengthen its footprint in Zimbabwe’s downstream petroleum sector, targeting both underserved rural markets and high-demand urban corridors.

Speaking during the launch of the Mhandamabwe retail site, Puma Energy Head of Africa, Ben Ouattara, said the group’s investment strategy is anchored on its broader mission to energise communities and support economic growth.

“The Mhandamabwe retail station stands as a symbol of opportunity. It speaks to improved access to energy, greater mobility, and the unlocking of local economic potential for the communities it serves,” Ouattara said.

“At Puma Energy, our purpose is clear to energise communities and help drive growth where it matters most. And nowhere is this more meaningful than here in Africa.”

Ouattara emphasised Zimbabwe’s strategic importance within the group’s continental ambitions, describing the country as a key anchor market.

“Zimbabwe is not just another market within our network; it is a strategic anchor in our continental vision. It represents resilience, potential, and the power of collaboration between public and private sectors,” he said.

He added that ongoing engagement between Zimbabwean authorities and the energy sector, particularly in navigating global supply complexities, has reinforced the company’s confidence to sustain and expand its investments.

“We are encouraged by the leadership demonstrated by Zimbabwe in engaging constructively with the energy sector, particularly in navigating an increasingly complex global environment. This spirit of partnership gives us confidence not only to remain invested, but to deepen our commitment over time,” Ouattara said.

“Because at its core, energy is more than supply. It is stability. It is growth. It is dignity. Our role is to bridge the gap, ensuring that reliable energy reaches the communities and economies that depend on it.”