**Global Energy Crisis Spreads to Africa as Nations Seek Dangote Fuel** Several African countries, including South Africa, are actively pursuing alternative sources of refined petroleum to mitigate potential shortages caused by disruptions to regional oil and gas exports. The escalating tensions in the Middle East, including Iranian attacks and retaliatory strikes, have unsettled global energy markets, prompting African governments to seek diversified fuel supplies. The Dangote Petroleum Refinery, owned by Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote, has become a focal point for regional energy security. The refinery, which processes 650,000 barrels per day, has received multiple inquiries from countries such as Ghana and Kenya as they explore options to secure long-term fuel supplies. South Africa is reportedly negotiating a twelve-month supply contract, while Ghana, Kenya, and other nations are engaging the refinery to ensure consistent access to refined petroleum products. Energy analysts say the disruptions in the Middle East have unsettled crude and refined fuel flows, particularly through strategic routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. Africa's dependence on Middle Eastern imports makes the continent highly sensitive to such disruptions. According to industry data, about seventy-five percent of refined fuel imported into eastern and southern Africa traditionally originates from the Middle East, exposing the region to supply shocks and price volatility. South African authorities are actively coordinating with industry stakeholders to secure both crude oil and refined petroleum products from a diverse range of sources. The government emphasized that a comprehensive plan is in place to manage potential supply risks. Kenyan officials have also indicated that, while fuel stocks are sufficient for the coming weeks, they are exploring diversified import channels to safeguard national energy security. Aliko Dangote, speaking to _The Economist_, stressed that availability has become the most pressing concern for markets today, surpassing pricing issues. "I think the situation will continue for a while," he said, highlighting the refinery's critical role in stabilizing regional supply and easing pressure on African nations vulnerable to global market disruptions. Industry data indicate that Africa's dependence on imported fuel has increased due to declining refining capacity in several countries. The Dangote refinery has already begun supplying neighboring markets, including Togo, Côte d'Ivoire, and Ghana, marking a shift toward greater intra-African trade in refined petroleum products. Despite this, about seventy-five percent of the refinery's output is earmarked for domestic consumption, limiting the volume available for export.