Dangote Launches African Petroleum Distribution Network

Aliko Dangote, President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, unveiled plans to create a comprehensive petroleum distribution network across Africa. This initiative involves strategic investments in pipelines, storage facilities, and supply corridors, aimed at enhancing energy security and improving access to refined products.

During an interview with Financial Times journalist David Pilling, Dangote revealed that the Group has acquired a 25% stake in a petroleum products pipeline network in Kenya, with support from the Kenyan government. The expansion also includes projects connecting Djibouti and Ethiopia, as well as investments in Cameroon and Namibia.

Dangote emphasized that Africa's economic transformation requires significant infrastructure investments and policies that support local manufacturing. He warned against allowing imports to displace local production, stating that this leads to job losses and increased poverty.

The initiative aims to develop an interconnected African energy supply system to serve markets that have historically relied on imported petroleum products.