Sahara Group launches bunkering operations in Mauritania

Sahara Group has begun bunkering operations in Mauritania after receiving a 2026 bunkering licence from the government, a move expected to strengthen the country’s growing role in West Africa’s maritime trade network.

The launch comes as shipping traffic across the Atlantic coast continues to rise, driven by energy exports, mining activity and regional trade. 

The company said the new operation will help improve access to marine fuel for vessels operating along major shipping routes in West and North-West Africa.

Industry players have increasingly looked to the region as ports seek to attract more international shipping business and offshore support services. 

Sahara has deployed the FT NERVI, a 7,600-deadweight-tonne bunker tanker positioned offshore Nouadhibou, to begin immediate fuel supply operations.

The vessel will provide ISO 8217:2022 Marine Gasoil and 0.50 percent Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil to regional and international vessels operating in Mauritanian waters. 

The development also highlights broader efforts by African energy and logistics companies to expand maritime infrastructure and improve supply chain reliability across coastal trade corridors.

Focus on port services and trade 

Sahara Group Executive Director Wale Ajibade said the operation is expected to improve vessel turnaround times and support trade activity in the region.

He said stronger bunkering capacity could help Mauritanian ports compete more effectively for international shipping traffic. 

“By establishing operational bunkering capacity in Mauritania, we are supporting port competitiveness, improving vessel turnaround efficiency and strengthening infrastructure that supports regional and international trade,” Ajibade said. 

The company added that easier access to marine fuel closer to major trade routes could reduce delays for vessels operating across West Africa’s coastline, while supporting offshore and maritime operations tied to the energy sector.

Cleaner fuel supply gains attention 

Sahara said the supply of ISO 8217:2022-compliant fuel reflects increasing demand for cleaner marine fuel as shipping companies adjust to tighter environmental regulations.

The use of 0.50 percent Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil has become more common since the International Maritime Organization introduced stricter sulphur emission limits for ships. 

The company said the fuel offering is aimed at helping ship operators meet international compliance standards while maintaining efficient operations across African shipping routes.

Expansion of maritime footprint 

Sahara Group said the Mauritania launch builds on its broader presence in Africa’s maritime and midstream sectors.

The company has previously deployed LPG vessels across parts of the continent to support fuel distribution and cleaner cooking initiatives. 

It added that its growing logistics and trading operations are intended to strengthen coastal supply chains and improve fuel delivery services in key African markets.