Tanzanian entrepreneurs are being offered a chance to enter the petroleum retail business through a partnership model with TotalEnergies. The Dealer-Owned, Dealer-Operated arrangement allows local investors to finance and run their stations while using the international company's brand and receiving support in areas such as training, operations, and business management. This initiative aims to expand TotalEnergies' national network while increasing local participation in the petroleum sector.
More than 50 individuals have expressed interest in joining the programme, which has attracted positive interest from Tanzanian investors. The model's launch was marked by the opening of a new TotalEnergies service station at Mtumba, owned by Tanzanian entrepreneur Vincent Limo. His investment in the partnership has grown to three outlets, following earlier stations in Tegeta and Madale in Dar es Salaam. Limo's engagement with TotalEnergies began in 2016/17, and the agreement was reached in 2019.
According to TotalEnergies Marketing Tanzania, the Dealer-Owned, Dealer-Operated programme has been operating in Tanzania since 2014, giving entrepreneurs an opportunity to own and manage fuel stations while receiving training and continued operational support. The company's Director of Legal and Corporate Affairs, Getri Mpangil, said the model allows a station to be owned and operated by an individual using the TotalEnergies brand.
Vincent Limo encouraged prospective investors to assess the business carefully before committing their money, advising them to conduct feasibility studies and seek professional guidance. He said the main challenge was not necessarily building a service station but managing its daily operations and meeting the associated costs. Limo praised TotalEnergies for its support throughout their business relationship.
TotalEnergies Network Operations Manager Adam Msangi highlighted the benefits of the Dealer-Owned, Dealer-Operated programme, which has enabled entrepreneurs to own and manage fuel stations while receiving training and continued operational support. The company's current network comprises more than 129 service stations across the country, with partnerships helping it extend its reach to more communities.
Getri Mpangil said the company continues to welcome more Tanzanians who want to partner with them, emphasizing the positive response to the model. The launch of the new service station at Mtumba demonstrates the company's commitment to expanding its national network and increasing local participation in the petroleum sector.
The partnership model offers opportunities for Tanzanian entrepreneurs to enter the petroleum retail business, with TotalEnergies providing technical and operational support. The company's efforts aim to promote local participation in the sector, creating jobs and driving economic growth.
Key points
- Over 50 Tanzanian entrepreneurs have expressed interest in the Dealer-Owned, Dealer-Operated programme.
- TotalEnergies operates more than 129 service stations across Tanzania.
- The partnership model provides training and operational support to local investors.
