Cameroon is set to commission its Kribi oil refinery in 2026, almost two years earlier than originally planned, marking a milestone in the country’s energy sector. The $622 million project, backed by Cstar Petroleum and the state-owned National Hydrocarbons Company (SNH), aims to reduce the nation’s dependence on imported fuels and boost domestic refining capacity, according to Business Insider Africa.
During its initial phase, the refinery is expected to process 10,000 barrels per day, meeting roughly 22 percent of Cameroon’s diesel and gasoline demand. This development is particularly significant as the country has relied heavily on fuel imports since a 2019 fire disrupted operations at the Limbe-based Sonara refinery, previously the country’s only major facility. Officials say the refinery will help cut imports by nearly a third, stabilize foreign exchange, and create thousands of jobs.
Located near the deep-water port of Kribi, the facility spans 250 hectares and is designed for a final capacity of 30,000 barrels per day. It will include a fuel storage terminal capable of handling diesel, gasoline, jet fuel, and other petroleum products, strengthening Cameroon’s supply chain and regional export potential. Preparatory works are already underway, with full-scale construction set to accelerate in the coming months.
The Kribi refinery is expected to play a strategic role in Central Africa’s energy landscape, providing a steady supply of refined products and supporting the government’s broader economic and industrial development goals.
Image Source: africa.businessinsider.com
