'Lekki proved it can be done, Lamu must repeat it,' Dangote says at refinery launch

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony attended by regional leaders, Dangote said the refinery, estimated to cost USD 16 billion (approximately KSh 2.1 trillion), would demonstrate Africa's ability to undertake large-scale industrial projects using its own resources and expertise.

"Lekki proved that it can be done, Lamu must prove that it can be repeated," Dangote said, referring to his refinery in Nigeria.

"I want to promise you that we will come back and commission this refinery 40 months from today."

Dangote revealed that discussions leading to the project initially centred on establishing a fertiliser plant before evolving into the proposed petroleum refinery.

He said preparations were already underway, with more than 110 pieces of equipment available for the project and an additional 400 expected to arrive within the next 60 days.

The businessman emphasised the importance of industrialisation, arguing that African countries must invest in processing their natural resources rather than relying heavily on exports of raw materials and imports of finished products.

"Africa cannot build lasting prosperity by exporting what we have and importing what we need," he said.

Source: Citizen Digital