“The government… invites sealed bids for petroleum exploration licensing round for 23 blocks in the north western, western and eastern provinces of Zambia,” Beene said.

He said, to increase funds for the project, the companies should show proven ability and their assets, machinery, technical expertise, equipment and tools needed to explore, produce and sale oil.

In the presence of bidders, the bids will be opened on the same day of closure of tenders. Companies will have to pay $10,000 non-refundable bidding fees.