DON’T BUILD REFINERY YET; WE CAN BUILD OURS’ — KENYAN PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE TELLS DANGOTE
A Kenyan presidential candidate has reportedly urged Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote to delay plans to build a refinery in Kenya, arguing that the country has the capacity to develop its own refining industry.
The candidate’s remarks come amid discussions about Kenya’s dependence on imported petroleum products and efforts to strengthen local energy production.
Dangote, whose refinery in Nigeria has begun supplying petroleum products to domestic and international markets, has been linked to discussions about expanding refining capacity beyond Nigeria.
The Kenyan candidate’s position appears to emphasise the need for Kenya to invest in its own infrastructure, develop local expertise and reduce dependence on imported fuel.
However, establishing a refinery requires substantial investment, reliable crude oil supplies, supporting infrastructure and a viable market.
The comments have brought renewed attention to the debate over whether African countries should rely on regional energy investments or prioritise developing their own refining capacity.
