Kenya is accelerating plans for a proposed $17 billion East Africa oil refinery that would position the country as a regional petrochemical and energy hub serving multiple East African markets, with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki leading government engagement with sponsors, including Nigerian industrialist Aliko Dangote.

Kindiki said government institutions have been assigned clear mandates to develop the legal, regulatory and administrative structures needed to support the investment, which is expected to help shield East African economies from fuel price shocks driven by global supply disruptions.

Lamu has emerged as the leading candidate to host the facility, aligning with Kenya’s ambition to build an integrated port, logistics and energy corridor on its northern coast. The proposed refinery is expected to have a capacity of around 700,000 barrels per day, supplying Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo and other neighbouring markets, with feasibility studies under way covering land availability, environmental considerations, marine access and pipeline connectivity. Lamu Governor Issa Timamy backed the project for its potential to create jobs and infrastructure, while calling for careful management of its environmental and social impact.

President William Ruto has tasked Kindiki with steering the domestic coordination framework overseeing feasibility, approvals and eventual implementation, working alongside Cabinet Secretaries covering treasury, energy, roads and lands. Kindiki asked stakeholders for patience as studies and policy work continue ahead of construction.

Source: pumps-africa.com