William Ruto has called on East African nations to support the proposed regional oil refinery project planned for Tanga, saying the initiative would reduce dependence on imported fuel from external markets.
Speaking before the National Assembly of Tanzania on Tuesday, President Ruto said East African countries should maximise local resources to create jobs, strengthen industries and boost economic growth across the region.
According to Ruto, the refinery would help East Africa reduce reliance on refined petroleum imports from the Middle East.
“The resources we have are good enough to help us find jobs and wealth. We agreed that if we unite as three nations, we will build that oil refinery,” Ruto said.
The Kenyan president argued that the region should focus on processing its own raw materials locally rather than exporting them and importing finished products at higher costs.
He referenced discussions held during the Africa We Build Summit 2026, where Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote expressed willingness to support construction of a major refinery in Tanzania.
Dangote reportedly proposed building a refinery similar to the massive 650,000-barrel-per-day facility operating in Nigeria if governments in the region back the plan.
President Ruto reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to partnering in the project, noting that existing infrastructure such as the crude oil pipeline heading to Tanga could strengthen regional fuel distribution.
“What is good for Tanzania is good for Kenya, and what is good for Kenya is good for Tanzania,” he stated.
The proposed refinery is estimated to cost around USD 20 billion (approximately KSh2.58 trillion) and is expected to help cushion East African economies from global fuel supply disruptions and price shocks linked to geopolitical tensions, including instability around the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, Uganda is also developing a 60,000-barrel-per-day refinery project in Kabaale, Hoima District, with a Final Investment Decision expected in July 2026.
