Burundi is positioning itself to benefit from a major East African energy investment expected to reshape fuel supply and industrial activity across the region.

Burundi’s Minister of Mining, Energy, Industry, Trade and Tourism represented President Évariste Ndayishimiye at the official launch of the renovation of the East African refinery and petroleum and petrochemical project in Lamu, Kenya, on October 1.

The project represents an estimated US$16 billion investment and is designed to process up to 700,000 barrels of crude oil per day. Burundi says the development could provide the country with more stable and competitive energy supplies, potentially lowering fuel and transport costs for businesses.

For Burundian companies, improved regional fuel availability could support logistics, manufacturing, agriculture and other energy-dependent sectors. The project is also expected to create opportunities in transport, technology, specialized skills and cross-border services.

Burundi’s participation highlights its effort to strengthen economic integration within East Africa and gain greater access to regional infrastructure projects.

Businesses across Burundi will be watching closely to see whether the project can translate into lower energy costs and stronger regional trade opportunities.