On December 12, 2024, Dangote Refinery and Neptune Oil, a distributor of petroleum products in Cameroon, officially marked a significant milestone: the first export of Nigerian refined products to Cameroon. This partnership represents a turning point for Central Africa, which is striving for energy independence and the valorization of its resources on a continental scale.

A Decisive Step Toward Energy Independence

Since the fire at the National Refining Company (Sonara) in May 2019, Cameroon has heavily relied on international imports for its finished petroleum product needs. This new collaboration enables the direct supply of high-quality refined products to Cameroon, while reducing costs associated with foreign intermediaries. Antoine Ndzengue, founder of Neptune Oil, highlighted the positive impact of this initiative on energy security and local economic development. This progress also alleviates the strain on public finances, often burdened by costly subsidies.

Regional Cooperation: The Key to Energy Resilience

This transaction illustrates the potential for increased energy collaboration between African countries. It is part of a regional dynamic where projects such as the Central African Pipeline System (CAPS) are essential for maximizing the exploitation and sharing of energy resources. By consolidating their efforts, nations in the sub-region can:

  1. Reduce reliance on foreign imports: By developing local infrastructures, African countries can lower their exposure to international market fluctuations.
  2. Strengthen local economic development: Partnerships like the one between Neptune Oil and Dangote Refinery foster job creation and industrialization.
  3. Encourage innovation and skills transfer: Collaboration between local businesses and multinationals facilitates the acquisition of technological and managerial expertise.

The CAPS Project: A Vision for the Future

The CAPS project, supported by the Central Africa Business Energy Forum (CABEF), represents a unique opportunity for African nations to build shared infrastructures and strengthen regional integration. Specifically, it aims to:

  • Enhance energy resilience: Shared infrastructures will enable better responses to energy crises.
  • Stimulate economic integration: CAPS promotes trade exchanges and strengthens ties between countries.
  • Promote sustainable development: Optimized management of energy resources will contribute to environmentally responsible growth.

Ultimately, this first export between Dangote Refinery and Neptune Oil marks the beginning of a new era for energy in Africa, demonstrating that the continent can address its energy challenges by uniting around common goals. Thanks to initiatives like the CAPS project, Central Africa has a strategic roadmap to overcome energy poverty and build a sustainable future. By focusing on collaboration, African nations are transforming their challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation, paving the way for a profound and lasting energy transformation.

The CABEF Team