Africa’s richest businessman Aliko Dangote has signalled plans to lead the development of a major oil refinery in Tanzania, as East African nations push to reduce reliance on imported fuel.

The proposed refinery is expected to be located in Tanga, with regional partners including Kenya and Uganda involved in discussions. The project is designed to process crude oil from across the region, including supplies from the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, and Uganda.  

Dangote said his group is ready to take the lead role and deliver the project within four to five years, provided participating governments reach agreement on key terms.  

The facility is expected to mirror Nigeria’s flagship Dangote refinery, one of the largest in the world, which has significantly boosted fuel production capacity and exports across Africa.  

Regional leaders see the project as a strategic move to improve energy security, cut import costs, and stabilise fuel prices, particularly amid global supply disruptions.  

If finalised, the refinery would mark one of the largest industrial investments in East Africa, with the potential to reshape regional energy markets and strengthen Tanzania’s position as a key energy hub.