Tanzania has announced a $420 million synthetic fuel project designed to transform the nation into a key player in Africa’s aviation fuel market. The project aims to produce sustainable jet fuel at scale, positioning Tanzania as a competitive exporter across the continent, as reported by Business Insider Africa.
According to the Ministry of Energy, the initiative will leverage advanced gas-to-liquid (GTL) technology to convert natural gas into high-quality synthetic fuels, with the first production phase expected to commence by 2027. Officials said the project will reduce reliance on imported refined products and enhance the country’s energy independence.
The development is seen as a direct challenge to Nigeria’s Dangote Group, whose 650,000 barrels-per-day refinery has been central to Africa’s refined fuel supply. Analysts note that Tanzania’s venture, though smaller in capacity, could reshape regional trade dynamics by providing alternative sources of aviation-grade fuel.
Energy Minister Doto Biteko said the project aligns with Tanzania’s industrialization agenda and global climate commitments, adding that the government will prioritize local participation in its implementation. The synthetic fuel plant is expected to attract foreign investment and create thousands of jobs within the country’s growing energy sector.
