Faith Nyasuguta
Senegal has taken a historic step by beginning to refine its own crude oil domestically, marking a significant milestone in its journey toward energy independence and economic growth. The refining is being carried out at the Societe Africaine de Raffinage (SAR) facility near the capital, Dakar, which had previously relied solely on imported crude since its establishment in 1961.
Since February 8, 2025, SAR has refined 650,000 barrels of crude oil, producing 90,000 tonnes of various fuels, including diesel, kerosene, petrol, and butane gas. This achievement is a result of Senegal’s oil production that began in June 2024 at the Sangomar oil field, operated by Australia’s Woodside Energy.
The Sangomar field, located off Senegal’s Atlantic coast, is expected to produce up to 100,000 barrels of oil per day, positioning Senegal as an emerging player in the global energy market.
This new chapter in Senegal’s energy history not only boosts its economic prospects but also reduces its dependence on imported petroleum products. With rising global energy prices, refining domestic crude is expected to help stabilize local fuel costs and enhance energy security.
The journey to this point hasn’t been easy. Senegal’s ambitions to become an oil and gas producer have been decades in the making, with hopes pinned on the Sangomar field and the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim gas project, shared with Mauritania.
However, production had been delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and logistical challenges. The commencement of domestic refining is, therefore, seen as a significant victory for the West African nation.
Senegal is also planning to expand SAR’s refining capacity from its current 1.2 million tonnes per year to 1.5 million tonnes, with a further target of 5 million tonnes by 2030. To support this, the national oil company, Petrosen, increased its stake in SAR to 93.5% in 2022. Additionally, Senegal is considering constructing a second refinery with a capacity of 80,000 barrels per day, backed by Chinese investment.
President Bassirou Diomaye Faye hailed the development as a pivotal moment for the country’s economy, emphasizing the potential for job creation and increased revenues. This strategic move is expected to transform Senegal into a regional energy hub, influencing energy dynamics across West Africa.
With its first domestically refined fuels now powering homes and vehicles, Senegal is not only meeting local demand but also setting the stage for energy independence and economic growth.
RELATED:
