Dangote Refinery Project Receives First Equipment Shipment at Lamu
The MV Da Yang Bai He docked at Lamu Port on 26 September with 2,930 tonnes of construction materials and heavy machinery from China for Dangote’s planned 700,000-barrel-a-day refinery. A groundbreaking is scheduled for 30 September, with President William Ruto and Aliko Dangote expected to attend. The project is estimated at US$15 billion to US$16 billion, while crude supply, financing, and a possible Kenyan 10% stake remain unresolved.
Kenya has long depended on imported fuel; its Mombasa refinery shut in 2013 and commercial oil production has not begun. Dangote selected Lamu in July for a second 700,000-barrel-per-day plant, following his Lagos facility. The first shipment arrived aboard MV Da Yang Bai He at Berth 3 in Kililana, carrying 2,930 tonnes of Chinese construction goods and machinery.
A groundbreaking is set for 30 September, with President William Ruto and Dangote expected; Daily Nation reports 14 other heads of state were invited. Cost estimates range from US$15–16 billion to about US$17.1 billion. Crude sourcing, financing, and a possible Kenyan 10% stake remain open, with completion targeted for 2030.
If built, the refinery could alter fuel supply for eight import-dependent countries, potentially affecting pump prices, freight costs and trade routes. Kenyan communities near Lamu may see jobs, port traffic and infrastructure, but also pressure on land, services and environment. Financing and crude-source uncertainty may delay benefits. Regional consumers and businesses could gain from shorter supply chains, while local residents may weigh opportunities against disruption.