The Port of Lamu has received its first cargo vessel linked to the Dangote East Africa Refinery project. The MV Da Yang arrived carrying 2,930 metric tonnes of heavy machinery and construction materials. This development comes ahead of an anticipated groundbreaking ceremony for the refinery, expected to take place next week, marking the beginning of construction on the KSh 2 trillion project.
The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) announced the vessel's arrival, describing it as an early signal of the port's expanding role in supporting major energy and infrastructure developments across the region. The refinery, once operational, will process crude oil sourced from Lokichar in Turkana County and supplies from other parts of East and Southern Africa.
The Port of Lamu is expected to serve as a key operational hub for the project, managing marine logistics and handling petroleum tankers as the refinery scales up activity. KPA Chief Executive Officer Captain William Ruto welcomed the vessel and formally presented the ship's master, Captain Wang Shengli, with a certificate of first call and a commemorative plaque.
Captain Ruto stated that the docking of the MV Da Yang carried considerable significance beyond the immediate cargo delivery. He said the arrival shows the government's commitment to ensuring the project's success and will be a game changer for the entire region. The Port of Lamu is fully equipped to manage current and future cargo demands linked to the project.
The Dangote East Africa Refinery is set to be the first oil refinery established in northern Kenya, positioning Lamu as a strategic gateway for the country's emerging petroleum sector. The refinery is expected to cost up to KSh 2.2 trillion, create about 60,000 jobs, and supply fuel across East Africa.
However, key issues, including pricing, gas supply, financing, and environmental approvals, remain unresolved ahead of the planned September 30 groundbreaking. Dangote has proposed to sell 500MW of electricity from a planned 1,000MW power plant linked to his Lamu refinery project, opening discussions with Kenya Power over a potential power purchase agreement.
The KPA CEO assured that the authority would maintain efficient vessel turnaround, smooth cargo operations, and customer-focused services aligned with international standards. The arrival of the MV Da Yang marks a significant milestone in the project's development, with construction expected to commence soon.
Key points
- The Dangote East Africa Refinery project is expected to cost KSh 2.2 trillion and create 60,000 jobs.
- The refinery will process crude oil from Turkana County and supply refined petroleum products across regional markets.
- The Port of Lamu will serve as a key operational hub for the project, managing marine logistics and handling petroleum tankers.
