A Fierce Competition for Market Dominance
The African fuel distribution sector is witnessing an intense rivalry between two energy giants: Vivo Energy and TotalEnergies. While TotalEnergies has long been the historical leader on the continent, Vivo Energy has emerged as a formidable challenger, expanding aggressively across Africa. But in 2025, which company can truly claim the number one spot?
A Legacy Giant vs. A Fast-Rising Competitor
TotalEnergies, formerly known as Total, has been present in Africa for several decades, establishing a deep-rooted network across multiple countries. Its extensive portfolio of fuel stations, lubricants, and energy solutions has reinforced its dominant position in the African market.
Vivo Energy, on the other hand, was founded in 2011 and quickly expanded by acquiring Shell’s downstream operations in Africa. With a clear ambition to become “the most respected energy company in Africa,” Vivo Energy has implemented rapid expansion strategies and significant investments to challenge TotalEnergies’ long-standing dominance.
Expansion Strategies and Major Acquisitions
One of the most significant moves in Vivo Energy’s expansion was its acquisition of a 74% stake in Engen in May 2024. Engen, a major player in the African fuel distribution sector, significantly boosted Vivo Energy’s market presence. With this acquisition, Vivo Energy now operates in 28 African markets, increasing its network to over 3,900 service stations and expanding its fuel storage capacity to more than two billion liters (source).
In contrast, TotalEnergies has faced recent setbacks. In October 2024, the company decided to exit its offshore blocks in South Africa, citing a lack of viable markets for its gas discoveries (source). This retreat highlights some of the challenges that TotalEnergies is currently facing in maintaining its dominance in certain African regions.
Market Share: Who is Leading?
Market share statistics provide a clearer picture of the competition. In Kenya, for example, Vivo Energy overtook TotalEnergies as the market leader in 2023, holding a 23.8% share, compared to TotalEnergies’ 17.3% (source).
However, market leadership varies across different African countries. While Vivo Energy is gaining momentum in several regions, TotalEnergies remains a dominant force in many strategic markets thanks to its long-established operations and brand loyalty.
Commitment to Sustainable Energy Solutions
Both companies recognize the importance of transitioning toward cleaner energy and have made investments in sustainable solutions.
- Vivo Energy and its parent company Vitol announced a $550 million investment by 2030 to develop clean cooking solutions in Africa, including LPG infrastructure and carbon-related cooking projects (source).
- TotalEnergies has pledged to phase out fossil fuel activities in South Africa following accusations of “greenwashing” (source). However, the company’s continued investment in the East African Crude Oil Pipeline has drawn criticism regarding the authenticity of its sustainability commitments.
Conclusion
Determining whether Vivo Energy or TotalEnergies is Africa’s number one fuel distributor depends on multiple factors, including market share, expansion strategies, and sustainability efforts.
- TotalEnergies remains the historical leader with deep market penetration and a well-established brand.
- Vivo Energy, however, is aggressively expanding and successfully challenging TotalEnergies in key markets.
With Africa’s energy landscape rapidly evolving, this competition is far from over. Both companies are investing in expansion and clean energy, setting the stage for a continued battle for dominance in the African fuel market.
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