Puma Energy Zambia PLC has expanded its retail footprint with the opening of its Lumwana service station in Kalumbila District, as heightened economic activity and rapid population growth drive demand for essential services in North-Western Province.

The November 5 launch marks the company’s 78th retail station nationally and forms part of its rural expansion programme aimed at improving access to fuel and other energy products in underserved communities.

Located about 60 kilometres west of Solwezi, the facility offers fuels, lubricants and a Shop Express convenience store, targeting motorists, transport operators, local businesses and surrounding communities.

Puma Energy Retail Manager Wongani Vinkhumbo said the investment reflected the company’s commitment to bringing essential services closer to customers while creating shared value with local communities.

District Commissioner Brenda Sankisa welcomed the development, saying the growing population and rising number of vehicles in the district made additional service infrastructure important in improving access and easing congestion.

She urged Puma Energy to involve local authorities and residents from the outset in its operations, particularly in employment, infrastructure development and corporate social responsibility.

North-Western Province Chamber of Commerce and Industry president said the investment would support mining, agriculture, transportation and other commercial activities, while calling for stronger participation of local businesses through procurement, employment and partnerships.

Chief Mukumbi welcomed Puma Energy’s partnership with local franchise operator Ram Enterprise, saying it demonstrated that local entrepreneurial capacity could meet international standards.

He said the project had created employment opportunities for local residents, adding that the jobs would support families and improve livelihoods.

Puma Energy’s rural station programme began in 2023.

The company currently operates 78 retail stations, 39 convenience stores and four terminals across Zambia, with a combined storage capacity of 16,000 cubic metres.