Mozambique has taken a major step toward energy self-sufficiency with the launch of a 240,000 barrels-per-day (bpd) refinery project in collaboration with Aiteo, one of Africa’s prominent energy firms.
The landmark agreement, which includes an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract, was officially signed during a high-profile ceremony chaired by President Daniel Chapo.
The refinery is expected to significantly reduce the country’s reliance on imported fuel, while positioning Mozambique as a strategic energy hub for the Southern African region.
The project will be developed through a joint venture between Aiteo US Corporation and Mozambique’s state-owned oil company, Petromoc.
U.S.-based Deerfield Energy Services LLC has been awarded the EPC contract, underlining the project’s international reach and technical ambition.
The refinery will roll out in phases, starting with an 80,000 bpd processing train, and eventually scaling up to its full capacity of 240,000 bpd.
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The facility will produce essential fuels such as gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and naphtha, using modular technology to accelerate deployment and ensure operational efficiency.
According to officials, the project aligns with Mozambique’s broader energy agenda focused on local refining capacity, job creation, and expanded access to clean energy. It will also support the country’s clean cooking goals by improving the availability of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
“This contract represents a turning point for Aiteo and Mozambique’s downstream energy landscape,” said Dr. Ransome Owan, Aiteo’s Group Managing Director for Infrastructure.
“It promises to curb fuel imports, generate jobs, and lay the groundwork for Mozambique to become a dominant force in Southern Africa’s energy supply chain.”
Construction of the initial phase is expected to be completed within 24 months. Once operational, the refinery will rank among the largest in the Southern African Development Community (SADC), enhancing regional energy security.
The project reflects President Chapo’s long-term industrial vision, centered on energy independence and large-scale infrastructure partnerships. It also underscores Aiteo’s continued commitment to transformative energy investments across the African continent.
Image credit: Billionaires.Africa
