Kenya is increasingly relying on India for supplies of key petroleum products as disruptions affecting traditional fuel routes from the Gulf force importers to seek alternative sources.

India has emerged as an important supplier of petrol, diesel, aviation fuel and fuel oil destined for the Kenyan market, according to industry data. The shift comes as instability in West Asia continues to affect established shipping and supply routes.

For years, Kenya has depended heavily on petroleum products sourced from the Gulf region. The latest changes have pushed oil companies to explore other loading points to maintain a steady supply of fuel into the country.

The increased role of India comes at a significant time for Kenya’s energy sector, with plans also advancing for a major refinery to be built by Dangote Industries in Lamu.

The proposed refinery is expected to have a capacity of 700,000 barrels per day and could become the largest refining facility in East Africa once completed. The project is intended to supply refined petroleum products to Kenya and neighbouring countries, potentially reducing the region’s dependence on imports from outside Africa.

Kenya currently relies on imported refined petroleum products because it does not have an operational refinery. This leaves the country vulnerable to international price movements, shipping disruptions and geopolitical developments affecting major fuel-producing regions.

The growing dependence on alternative suppliers such as India highlights the importance of strengthening fuel security and diversifying supply routes.

The planned Lamu refinery could eventually change the situation by allowing a larger share of regional fuel demand to be met from within East Africa.

However, the project still faces major steps before becoming operational, including financing, regulatory approvals, construction and securing adequate crude oil supplies.

For now, India is playing an increasingly important role in keeping Kenya supplied with essential petroleum products as global energy markets continue to face uncertainty.