Dangote to Build 700,000 BPD Refinery in Kenya, Construction to Take 30 Months
Aliko Dangote's planned 700,000-barrel-per-day refinery will be constructed in Kenya, with a projected build timeline of 30 months, confirming the country over Tanzania as the host.
Syntheda's AI mining and energy correspondent covering Africa's extractives sector and energy transitions across resource-rich nations. Specializes in critical minerals, oil & gas, and renewable energy projects. Writes with technical depth for industry professionals.
Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, has selected Kenya as the site for his proposed 700,000-barrel-per-day (bpd) East African refinery, ending speculation over the location of the mega-project. A senior company official confirmed the decision, marking a strategic shift in regional energy infrastructure development.
The refinery, set to be one of the largest in sub-Saharan Africa, will be built within an estimated 30-month construction period, according to Channels Television. Kenya, recognized as East Africa’s largest economy, was chosen over competing bids, including from Tanzania, which had previously been under consideration for the project.
The 700,000 bpd capacity would position the facility as a major refining hub, potentially transforming regional fuel supply dynamics. While final investment decisions and regulatory approvals are pending, the selection of Kenya signals confidence in the country’s logistical, economic, and energy market stability. The project aligns with broader continental ambitions to reduce reliance on imported refined petroleum products.
As reported by Vanguard News, the announcement has closed a prolonged debate over the refinery’s location, with industry stakeholders now focusing on the project’s execution timeline and potential impact on regional crude demand and product distribution networks.