Nairobi — East African countries are advancing plans to establish a joint oil refinery in Tanzania’s Tanga port, aiming to reduce reliance on imported fuel and strengthen regional energy security, according to William Ruto.
Speaking at an infrastructure conference, Ruto said the proposed refinery would integrate crude supplies from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, South Sudan, and Uganda. The move comes as the region continues to depend almost entirely on imported refined products, leaving it exposed to global supply disruptions and price volatility.
Nigerian industrialist Aliko Dangote confirmed readiness to support the project, stating that his group could replicate the model of the Dangote Refinery—one of the world’s largest facilities—within four to five years, subject to government alignment.
Parallel efforts are underway, with Uganda planning a 60,000 barrels-per-day refinery in partnership with UAE-based Alpha MBM Investments, as it prepares to begin commercial oil production. Dangote also outlined plans to expand fertilizer production across Africa and encouraged regional investors to participate in future listings tied to his refining operations.
The Middle East Observer notes that the Tanga refinery initiative reflects a broader shift toward localizing refining capacity and capturing value from regional crude resources. The Middle East Observer further observes that such projects could reduce import bills, stabilize fuel supply, and strengthen trade balances, while supporting industrial development across East Africa.
If realized, the project would mark a significant step toward greater energy self-sufficiency and regional integration, though its success will depend on coordinated policy, financing, and infrastructure development across participating countries.
