Dangote Breaks Ground on $16 Billion Kenyan Oil Refinery
Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote has embarked on a new venture in Kenya, building a $16 billion oil refinery that will supply diesel, petrol, and jet fuel to East Africa's largest economy. The project, which is expected to meet growing demand for petroleum products across the region, was officially launched with a ground-breaking ceremony in Lamu county.
The refinery, which will have a capacity of 700,000 barrels per day, is being built in partnership with Honeywell Technologies, a US-based company that has provided engineering services and equipment for Dangote's Nigerian refinery. According to Honeywell President Rajesh Gattupalli, the company's long-standing relationship with Dangote will allow them to 'significantly reduce time-to-market' by applying proven large-train engineering designs.
The project has been met with criticism from conservationists and affected landowners who are challenging its construction in court. However, President William Ruto has expressed confidence in the project's potential to boost Kenya's economy.