Recently, Dangote announced plans to extend its reach to Namibia following the completion of the world’s largest oil refinery. This announcement was made during a high-level meeting with President Netum Bonan Dindaitva in Windhawk.
This visit marks another milestone in the Dangote Group’s ongoing expansion across energy and industrial sectors in over 12 African nations, including South Africa, Ethiopia, Zambia, and Tanzania.
“Africa is Africa. It’s not just Nigeria. If we sit back, there won’t be any entrepreneurs. Whether we can develop our continent from Japan, the US, or elsewhere,” the billionaire remarked.
Why Namibia?
Dangote’s interest in Namibia reflects a renewed emphasis on green hydrogen strategies and energy partnerships within Africa’s private sector.
He recently celebrated the launch of a massive oil refinery, which processes 650,000 barrels daily, along with producing a considerable amount of polypropylene, fertilizers, LPGs, and other industrial goods.
He mentioned, “Currently, there is oil and gas. We’ve just finished constructing the largest refinery, not just in Africa, but globally.”
“We produce one million tons of polypropylene, carbon black raw materials, LPG, sulfuric acid chips, and over three million tons of fertilizer capacity. This places us as the second-largest in the world,” he continued.
Dangote stressed a $620 million investment in South Africa, emphasizing a broader vision to boost economic independence and intra-African trade. “It’s not just about Nigeria; it’s about Africa. We need to demonstrate our capabilities.”
In response, President Nandi Nudaitwa noted the importance of African-owned investments for value creation and job opportunities.
She stated, “Given our resources, we can’t afford to remain poor. This applies to both our human and natural capital.”
“We don’t want to be viewed as a wealthy continent filled with impoverished individuals. An entrepreneur like you brings hope to the youth, showing that success is possible,” she added.
She invited Dangote to consider Namibia as a “home away from home” and expressed her readiness to support investment projects that yield long-term local benefits.
“Meeting successful African entrepreneurs like you transcends commerce; it’s inspiration,” Nandi-Ndaitwah stated. “Namibia is eager for this type of partnership.”
