The Iran war has exposed Africa’s vulnerability to fuel chokepoints, with an 86-million-tonne fuel shortfall projected by 2040, the AFC said Thursday.
Africa imports more than 70 percent of its refined fuel and around $230 billion in essential goods annually, the report said.
Africa’s dependence on fuel imports will rise from 74 million tonnes in 2023 to 86 million tonnes by 2040, AFC said.
At Nairobi summit, Aliko Dangote pledged to build an East African refinery mirroring Nigeria’s 650,000-barrel facility if supported by leaders.
Dependence on outsiders undermines ambitions Ruto warned saying Africa must not rely on external capital seeking raw materials for industries.
Kenya announced major infrastructure expansion including hydro dams, power generation, roads, rail and airports over seven years nationwide programme underway.
Weaknesses acknowledged but regions overcame similar challenges Ruto said urging Africa to reject complacency and expand ambition collective economic growth.
AFC report urged new energy hubs and improved performance, citing Zambian drought-hit dams and unconnected Angolan hydropower waste losses observed.
War-driven fertiliser shortages highlight reliance on Gulf imports despite Africa holding major phosphate reserves, the report noted dependency paradox.
Africa holds 80 percent of global phosphate reserves yet produces only 20 percent of supply, revealing a structural imbalance globally.
Babihuga-Nsanze said Africa has a clear opportunity to fill global gaps if it strengthens production and integration systems across sectors.