May 2025 — In a significant development for maritime logistics in West Africa, Vitol Bunkers has officially commenced bunkering by barge in the West African (WAF) market. This move marks a strategic expansion of Vitol’s global marine fuel operations, enabling flexible and efficient refueling solutions for vessels operating in the region.
Initial Deliveries Underway
The service has begun with the supply of Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) and Marine Gas Oil (MGO) — two of the most commonly required grades of fuel in global shipping today. According to Vitol, the company plans to further expand its product offerings to include the full spectrum of marine fuels, thereby enhancing the scope of services for its maritime clients.
Flexibility Through Floating Infrastructure
What sets this service apart is its barge-based delivery model, allowing Vitol to supply marine fuels offshore or at anchor — a method particularly well-suited for regions with limited port infrastructure or where port congestion can delay operations.
Key locations include Dakar, Senegal and offshore Lomé, Togo, but the mobile nature of barge bunkering means ships can be refueled wherever needed, significantly improving operational flexibility for shipping companies operating in and around West Africa.
A Global Footprint Grows
The expansion into West Africa adds another strategic node to Vitol Bunkers’ already extensive global network, which spans Asia, Australia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and North America. This development reinforces Vitol’s position as a leading global provider of marine fuels, serving a wide range of customers including commercial shipping companies, offshore operators, and global logistics providers.
Leadership Perspective
Commenting on the milestone, Ammar Hussaini of Vitol Bunkers emphasized the customer-centric nature of the expansion:
“Supplying bunkers by barge to the WAF market allows us to support our customers flexibly — in the location and with the fuels that they need.”
This approach aligns with Vitol’s broader mission of delivering tailored energy solutions that meet the evolving demands of a dynamic maritime industry.
About Vitol
Founded in 1966, Vitol is a privately held energy and commodities company with a robust presence across the global energy value chain. The company is involved in sourcing, trading, logistics, and risk management of energy products including crude oil, refined petroleum, natural gas, LNG, power, carbon credits, and renewables.
- Trade Volume: Over 7 million barrels of oil and petroleum products per day.
- Shipping Activity: Chartering of approximately 6,200 ship voyages annually.
- Global Reach: Operations from more than 40 offices worldwide.
Vitol continues to play a critical role in global energy security, with a strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and long-term value creation.
Source Vitol