Aliko Dangote Plans to Establish a Major Refinery in Kenya to Strengthen His Presence in East Africa

In a global context marked by tensions in the Middle East and disruptions in energy supply chains, Africa’s industrial ambitions in the oil sector are gaining new momentum. The continent, heavily reliant on imported refined fuels, is seeking to enhance its local production capacities.

Against this backdrop, Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote plans to expand his industrial model to East Africa, following the commissioning of his Lekki refinery in Nigeria in 2024, which is expected to reach full capacity by early 2026.

A Giant Refinery Project in East Africa

During the recent “The Africa We Build” summit held in Nairobi, Dangote expressed his ambition to construct a refinery with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, contingent upon support from regional governments.

This strategic initiative was presented in the presence of Presidents William Ruto and Yoweri Museveni, highlighting the growing political interest surrounding this regional energy initiative.

Kenya’s Edge Amid Regional Competition

Until now, the Tanzanian port of Tanga was considered the most likely option to host this pivotal project, aimed at utilizing the oil resources of Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with logistical connections planned toward Mombasa.

However, according to Dangote’s statements in the Financial Times, the choice may ultimately lean toward Mombasa in Kenya, owing to its port infrastructure and strategic position on the East African coast.

A Regional Energy and Geopolitical Challenge

Beyond logistical considerations, this project fits into a broader strategy of transforming the African energy landscape, aiming to reduce dependence on imports and strengthen regional industrial integration. Consequently, the selection of Kenya emerges as a major strategic stake in the race for energy investments in East Africa.