Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has unveiled plans to build a major refinery in East Africa in partnership with regional governments, targeting completion within four years.

Speaking at a summit in Nairobi alongside Presidents William Ruto and Yoweri Museveni, Dangote said the proposed facility would mirror his 650,000 barrels-per-day refinery in Nigeria, pending strong policy support and regional alignment.

He criticised Africa’s reliance on exporting raw materials, warning it weakens economic growth, and called for industrialisation through local value addition. The planned refinery is expected to serve multiple East African countries and boost regional energy security.

Dangote also stressed the need for stable government policies, increased intra-African investment, and visa-free movement to enhance trade and integration across the continent.

Regional leaders echoed his stance, urging collaboration to shift Africa from raw material exports to finished goods production.