• Vitol will invest $130 million via Vivo Energy to expand fuel storage in Durban.
• The project aims to double capacity to 500,000 m³ and strengthen national fuel reserves.
• New infrastructure could add 20–25 days of запас supply in case of disruptions.

Vivo Energy, the South African subsidiary of Vitol, plans to invest $130 million to expand fuel storage capacity in Durban, as the group strengthens its role in the country’s energy supply chain.

Chief Executive Officer George Roberts announced the investment on April 14 during the South African Investment Conference.

Our EVP South & CEO Engen, George Roberts, attended the South African Investment Conference to engage on the country’s investment trajectory and introduce our Durban Hub - a R2bn investment to enhance energy security and drive local value.#SAIC #VivoEnergy #Engen #SouthAfrica pic.twitter.com/XoRv0O3VIe

— Vivo Energy (@VivoEnergy) April 9, 2026

The company will use the funds to convert former refining tanks into storage facilities. The upgraded infrastructure will handle multiple petroleum products, including diesel, gasoline and jet fuel, at one of South Africa’s key port hubs.

Moreover, Vivo Energy aims to double its current storage capacity to reach a total of 500,000 cubic meters. The company expects to commission the new capacity between the third quarter of 2026 and 2027. Roberts said the expansion will “increase stock levels in the country,” allowing South Africa to build reserves equivalent to an additional 20 to 25 days of supply in case of disruptions.

The project will also include the rehabilitation of a petroleum products reception terminal located in Island View, a major logistics zone within Durban.

A player consolidating its logistics footprint in Africa

Vitol has fully controlled Vivo Energy since 2022. The company operates more than 4,000 service stations across Africa. It markets the Shell brand outside South Africa and the Engen brand within the South African market.

The group continues to expand its storage and distribution infrastructure across the continent. It has invested in fuel depots in Uganda, Tanzania and Mozambique, while it is also developing projects in Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal and Morocco.

Durban plays a central role in this strategy. Bloomberg reported on April 14 that the Island View area serves as one of the country’s main petrochemical hubs. Vivo Energy and Vitol are increasing investments in this zone, where related energy infrastructure, including gas projects, is also under development.

This article was initially published in French by Abdel-Latif Boureima

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum