Imbono celebrates first HFO shipment from Cabinda Oil Refinery

Imbono is proud to celebrate a major achievement in the development of the Cabinda Oil Refinery with the successful shipment of its first cargo of Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO). The milestone marks another important step in the refinery's operational journey and highlights the growing role of domestic refining capacity in supporting Angola's energy and economic development goals.

The first HFO shipment represents the culmination of years of planning, engineering, construction, and operational preparation by the refinery team and its partners. It demonstrates the refinery's ability to convert crude oil into valuable petroleum products while contributing to increased energy self-sufficiency and industrial growth across the region.

The shipment involved the transfer of Heavy Fuel Oil aboard the Kuzey Star II, marking the first commercial HFO cargo to depart from the refinery. The successful loading and transfer operation reflects the refinery's growing operational capability and the effectiveness of the logistics, marine, and terminal teams responsible for executing the milestone safely and efficiently.

As one of Angola's most important energy infrastructure projects, the Cabinda Oil Refinery has been designed to strengthen local refining capabilities, reduce dependence on imported refined products, and create long-term value through job creation, skills development, and industrial expansion.

The successful export of HFO is a clear indication that the refinery is progressing as planned and delivering tangible results. Heavy Fuel Oil remains an important energy product for industrial applications, power generation, and marine operations in many markets around the world. The shipment therefore represents both a commercial achievement and a demonstration of the refinery's operational readiness.

Marcus Weyll, Chief Executive Officer of Imbono, welcomed the milestone and praised the dedication of everyone involved in the project.

"The first shipment of Heavy Fuel Oil from the Cabinda Oil Refinery is a significant achievement and a moment of pride for everyone who has contributed to making this project a reality," said Weyll. "The successful transfer demonstrates the progress the refinery has made in establishing reliable operations and delivering value to the market. This milestone reflects the commitment, expertise, and collaboration of our partners, contractors, and operations teams. It also underscores the strategic importance of investing in refining infrastructure that supports economic growth, energy security, and long-term industrial development in Angola and across the region."

Weyll added that the shipment represents just one stage in the refinery's broader growth trajectory. "We view this achievement not as an endpoint, but as an important step forward." 

The achievement reinforces Angola's ambition to increase domestic refining capacity and maximize the value derived from its natural resources. As additional production streams come online and operational capabilities continue to grow, the refinery is expected to make an increasingly important contribution to the country's energy landscape.

As the refinery enters its next phase of growth, Imbono remains committed to supporting projects that create sustainable economic impact, strengthen energy resilience, and contribute to Africa's industrial future.