Kenya and Tanzania are stepping up competition to secure a major refinery investment linked to Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote, with both countries positioning themselves as the preferred destination for the project.

Kenyan President William Ruto has reportedly instructed officials to identify a suitable site at the coastal city of Mombasa, where the country’s main port could support large-scale fuel imports and processing operations. The move is seen as an effort to fast-track Kenya’s bid and strengthen its case to investors.

The project is associated with the expansion plans of the Dangote Group, which has been pushing deeper into Africa’s energy sector. A refinery of this scale would be expected to boost regional fuel supply, create jobs, and reduce reliance on imports.

However, Tanzania, led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan, is also believed to have previously been in discussions to host the facility. This has set up a quiet but growing rivalry between the two East African neighbours as they seek to attract major infrastructure investment.

Officials in both countries see the project as strategically important, not only for energy security but also for boosting trade and industrial growth along the East African coast. Kenya is banking on its port infrastructure in Mombasa, while Tanzania is expected to leverage its own coastal access and investment-friendly policies.

No final decision has been announced yet, but early positioning suggests both governments are actively working to secure the high-profile deal.