“Lukewarm” Neo-Colonialism? Tendering for the Construction of the Tanzam Oil Pipeline in the Mid-1960s

This paper explores the tendering process for the construction of the Tanzam oil pipeline in the mid-1960s. In doing so it addresses aspects of neo-colonialism, British investment overseas and the history of the British multinational company Lonrho. It argues that Britain’s domestic economic weakness constrained its ability to exploit its historical links with Zambia to promote British business in the region. It further suggests that the Zambian government enjoyed a high level of autonomy in deciding the outcome of the tender. Consequently, Lonrho’s managing-director, Roland “Tiny” Rowland’s, attempt to exploit his friendship with the Zambian President Kenneth Kaunda failed.

Presenter:  Dr. Andrew Cohen, University of the Free State
Date:            22 August 2013
Time:           1:00 p.m.
Place:           HSB 18-26