The Akwa Group, a Moroccan energy and oil distribution giant, has announced the launch of an ambitious oil storage project in Bargny-Sendou, approximately 30 kilometres from Dakar, the capital of Senegal. This development, which includes natural gas processing capabilities, aims to transform energy distribution in West Africa, according to Pumps Africa. This project marks a crucial step for Senegal, which recently joined the club of oil-producing countries thanks to the exploitation of the Sangomar offshore field, operational since 2024.
Strategically located near Dakar, the Bargny-Sendou site will store crude oil and refined products, while also incorporating a natural gas processing plant. This infrastructure will strengthen Senegal's ability to meet regional energy demand, while supporting its ambition to become an energy hub in West Africa. This project could reshape the region's energy dynamics by improving access to fuel and natural gas.
Founded in 1959 under the name Afriquia SMDC, the Akwa Group, owned by the Akhannouch and Wakrim families, is a Moroccan conglomerate operating in hydrocarbons, distribution, tourism, media and renewable energy. Known for its Afriquia fuel brand and its subsidiary Afriquia Gaz, Akwa Group has consolidated its presence in French-speaking Africa, with operations in Côte d'Ivoire and Cameroon. This Senegalese project is part of a broader expansion strategy aimed at strengthening its regional footprint through its expertise in oil and gas logistics. This experience in managing large-scale oil projects positions Akwa as a key partner for Senegal, where it will be able to leverage its know-how to optimise energy distribution.
Senegal has entered a new energy era with the start of oil production at the Sangomar field in 2024, managed by Woodside Energy with a stake held by Petrosen, the national oil company. This field, located 100 km south of Dakar, produces between 75,000 and 125,000 barrels per day, with estimated reserves of 230 million barrels of crude oil and 2.4 trillion cubic feet of gas. In addition, the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project, co-developed with Mauritania by BP and Kosmos Energy, aims to produce 2.3 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) per year in its first phase, strengthening Senegal's position as a gas producer.
The Akwa Group project in Bargny-Sendou will support these developments by providing essential infrastructure for the storage and distribution of hydrocarbons. It will contribute to Senegal's goal of achieving universal access to energy by 2030, while reducing dependence on expensive imported fossil fuels, which still dominate the country's energy mix. By integrating natural gas processing, the project could also facilitate the use of domestic gas for electricity generation, thereby reducing energy costs and CO2 emissions.
The project is also expected to generate local jobs and stimulate the Senegalese economy, which is projected to grow by 6.1% in real terms in 2024, although slightly below initial forecasts due to weaker activity in construction and industry.
Despite its potential, the project faces challenges, including the need for clear regulations on local content, as stipulated in the Senegalese Petroleum Code, which requires oil companies to incorporate a proportion of local labour and materials. Furthermore, Senegal, one of Africa's most stable countries, must navigate a period of political transition following the election of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye in March 2024, who announced an audit of the oil, gas and mining sectors to renegotiate contracts with foreign operators. These developments could influence Akwa Group's operating conditions.
From an environmental perspective, the project will need to address growing concerns related to the energy transition. Senegal aims to achieve 40% renewable energy capacity by 2030, with projects such as the Kolda solar park, which incorporates battery storage. Akwa Group, already involved in clean energy through its joint venture Green of Africa, could integrate sustainable practices into its Senegalese project to align its operations with these objectives.
The Akwa Group's oil storage and natural gas processing project in Bargny-Sendou represents a major step forward for Senegal's and West Africa's energy infrastructure. By capitalising on Moroccan expertise and the growth of Senegal's oil sector, this project could redefine regional energy distribution while supporting economic growth and job creation. However, its success will depend on the ability to overcome regulatory, environmental and political challenges in the context of global energy transition. As Senegal positions itself as a key player in the African oil sector, Akwa Group's investment illustrates the growing role of inter-African partnerships in building a sustainable energy future.