Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, has begun construction of a new oil refinery in Lamu, Kenya, marking his second major refinery project on the continent. The $16 billion facility, located on Kenya’s northern coast, is expected to significantly enhance regional energy security.
The project, which started on September 29, 2026, is part of Dangote’s broader strategy to expand his energy infrastructure across Africa. The refinery, set to be one of the largest in East Africa, will process crude oil into refined products such as gasoline and diesel. This follows the completion of Dangote’s first major refinery in Nigeria, which began operations in 2024.
Dangote’s investment in Kenya aims to reduce the continent’s reliance on imported fuel. The new refinery is expected to supply energy to both Kenya and neighboring countries, supporting economic growth and industrial development. The project also aligns with Kenya’s national energy plans to increase local production and reduce dependency on foreign oil.
Dangote’s empire already includes cement, fertiliser, and agricultural ventures. His expansion into oil refining reflects a growing trend among African entrepreneurs to invest in energy infrastructure. The Lamu refinery is seen as a key step toward achieving regional energy self-sufficiency, a goal Dangote has publicly supported.
The project comes amid rising demand for energy across Africa, driven by population growth and industrialization. With the new refinery, Dangote aims to solidify his position as a leading energy player on the continent. The project is expected to create thousands of jobs and boost local economies in the region.
