Dangote Expands Oil Operations with Three New Projects in Africa

Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote has recently launched three new oil projects in Africa, expanding his business operations beyond his Nigerian refinery. Between September 30 and November 4, 2026, Dangote initiated projects in Kenya, Cameroon, and Namibia, marking a significant shift from refining to distribution and storage. This expansion is part of Dangote's strategy to grow his oil and gas business across the continent.

In Kenya, Dangote and President William Ruto launched a $16 billion refinery project in Lamu on September 30, 2026. The refinery is expected to process 700,000 barrels of oil per day and will be financed 70% through loans, with the Kenyan government considering a 30% stake. This project will be a significant addition to Kenya's oil infrastructure, as the country has not had an operational refinery since the closure of Kenya Petroleum Refineries Limited.

On November 4, 2026, Dangote launched a $2.5 billion project in Namibia, which includes a fuel depot and pipeline in Walvis Bay. The project is expected to be completed within 18 to 20 months. Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah attended the launch, despite opposition from critics like Venaani, who had raised concerns about government transparency in November 2025.

In Cameroon, Dangote unveiled Dangote Oil & Gas Cameroon, a new subsidiary led by Bertrand Mbouck. The company will engage in various activities, including the operation of service stations, production of bitumen, lubricants, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), as well as refining, petrochemicals, and pipeline operations. This move follows a 30-month contract signed with the Société nationale de raffinage (Sonara) and MRS to supply Cameroon with fuels.

The expansion of Dangote's oil operations in Cameroon was a long-awaited development, as he had promised to invest in the country's oil and gas sector during an audience in June 2021. The project is expected to boost Cameroon's energy supply, with Dangote's company partnering with Neptune Oil to export 60,000 tonnes of gasoline to the country. Antoine Ndzengue, owner of Neptune Oil, described the partnership as a turning point for Cameroon.

Dangote's projects in Kenya, Cameroon, and Namibia demonstrate his commitment to expanding his oil and gas business across Africa. The new projects will not only increase the availability of petroleum products but also create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the regions. However, Dangote will need to navigate the complex regulatory environments and address concerns about transparency and competition from other industry players.

One of the key challenges Dangote may face is competition from existing infrastructure projects, such as the SCDP terminal being developed in Kribi, which will have a capacity of 230,000 cubic meters for white products. Nevertheless, Dangote's expansion into new markets and sectors is expected to strengthen his position as a leading player in Africa's oil and gas industry.

Key points

• Aliko Dangote launches three new oil projects in Kenya, Cameroon, and Namibia, expanding his business operations across Africa.