Major Global Players Set to Join MSGBC Upstream Market as Nations Eye Future Discoveries
Several international energy companies are expected to join the MSGBC region's upstream market in the coming months, as operators target exploration opportunities in The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Guinea-Conakry. Speaking at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference this week, Ben Sayers, Partner & Energy Specialist, GeoPartners, explained that the south of the MSGBC region has not yet heralded a major discovery, but expected forays by international companies could potentially turn this trend around.
“We are seeing a very different position in the north of MSGBC and the south. In the north, we have production onstream in Senegal and Mauritania. In the south, countries still need to drill to find that oil. We have seen Chevron joining Guinea-Bissau which is fantastic for the south part of the basin. We could see similar things in The Gambia, with two to three big companies expected to join. Companies are also linking up to work with Guinea-Conakry,” Sayers said.
These developments align with a broader trend by regional nations to incentivize upstream investment. In addition to opportunities in the south of the MSGBC basin, Paul Freeman, Global Exploration Advisor, SLB, highlighted opportunities in deeper acreage across the region. He explained that “We know the geology is good and there are the right kind of play types. Once you go below 1,000 m, there is very little exploration. But recent discoveries in Namibia show that certain play types and source rocks work better the deeper you go. There is a vast area in the MSGBC basin in the ultra-deepwater that still has potential to be unlocked.”
Against a backdrop of record-breaking production and major investments, the MSGBC region is positioning itself as the next major exploration hub. From improved fiscal terms to bold exploration campaigns and new block opportunities, regional nations are looking to attract fresh capital in upstream projects.
“I used to say that the MSGBC is a world-class petroleum system; but I was wrong, it is a super world-class petroleum basin. We now have solid drilling evidence proving that we have multiple source rocks. We have Permian source rocks, source rocks in the Jurassic and cretaceous. Seismic does not find oil and gas. While seismic is a requirement, drilling finds oil and gas,” stated Rogers Beall, Executive Chairman, Africa Fortesa Corporation.
Senegal is currently seeking partners to develop its Yakaar-Teranga gas project while Mauritania is looking to advance its BirAllah development. To attract partners in these projects - as well as other exploration initiatives - Alioune Guèye, CEO, Petrosen Holding, underscores the role of national oil companies (NOC).
He explained that “the basin is attractive enough in terms of geology. Now the question is, why haven't we attracted more players into the basin? I believe that there are steps in attracting big players. One of the first steps is for NOCs to do some volarization and preliminary work. Companies like Petrosen need to step up their game and do that work to de-risk [the basin] and ensure that we can attract those players to invest.”
Mauritania is strengthening its regulation under efforts to attract partners to projects such as BirAllah. Chemsdine Sow Deina, Director General of Petroleum and Low Carbon Hydrogen, Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, Mauritania, explained that “We have recently established some improvements to the regulations, including terms associated with cost recovery. We have a better investment code and a new local content code. The legal framework is based on best practices worldwide. The win-win partnership is our strategy.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.Senegal Charts Gas-to-Power Strategy at MSGBC 2025
Senegal is emerging as a continental leader in gas-to-power solutions, combining innovative technical models with flexible project delivery to meet rapidly growing electricity demand, panelists said on Tuesday at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference in Dakar.
Senegal's approach is already showing results: the country launched Africa's first LNG-to-power project this July without subsidies, highlighting a model that could serve as a blueprint for the region, according to Zackarie Fortin-Brazeau, Vice President for LNG to Power & Clean Technologies at Karpowership.
“This is a milestone for the continent and showcases the proof of discipline and strong execution here in Senegal,” Fortin-Brazeau said. He noted that Senegal's electricity demand is growing by 9–10% per year, among the fastest in the world. “Keeping up with this demand requires reliability, flexibility and speed. New turbines today take around five years to procure, deliver and install – this is why powerships play a long-term role in countries that have quick emerging power.” Fortin-Brazeau emphasized that floating powerships can be deployed faster and at lower cost than land-based plants, complementing renewable energy sources by providing generation that can respond quickly to intermittent supply.
The push for gas integration is underpinned by a broader strategic shift, according to Papa Toby Gaye, Director General of national electricity company SENELEC. “This strategy is built on decentralizing capacity. We understand that electricity costs depend heavily on the type of fuel used… If we are able to introduce gas into the mix, we can significantly reduce electricity prices,” Gaye said. He added that smaller, distributed power plants will allow Senegal to flexibly integrate gas as it becomes available.
Technical execution remains central to these efforts. Pape Momar Lô, CEO of state-owned Réseau Gazier du Sénégal, emphasized rigorous preparation, including stakeholder consultation, mapping and environmental planning. He also highlighted the wider potential of gas infrastructure: “Even today, the conversation has moved beyond simply ‘gas-to-power' to ‘gas-to-X.' This reflects that various industries – whether in agriculture, transportation, aquaculture, health or fishing – can adapt and take advantage of this gas infrastructure for their own development. We need a strong legal framework, with a strong gas code to make sure this is sustainable.”
The economic case for gas-to-power in Africa was reinforced by Dr. Riverson Oppong, CEO of the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies. “We have tested gas-to-power not only in Ghana but other African countries. The technology is tested, acceptable, and most importantly, very affordable,” he said. Highlighting Ghana's experience, he noted that switching from crude oil or diesel to gas cut electricity tariffs significantly, illustrating the financial impact of integrating gas.
From a financial and operational perspective, Dominique Gadelle, VP Early Engagement Gas at TechnipEnergies, highlighted the pillars of successful gas-to-power projects: revenue security, risk reduction, ESG compliance and technological integration. “Switching from fuel to natural gas is one of the most credible pathways, as it can reduce CO₂ emissions per megawatt-hour by approximately 50%,” he said. Gadelle also emphasized forward-looking planning for the sector: gas-to-power is a lever to transition from coal and fuel to cleaner electricity, but networks should eventually be ready to integrate hydrogen and reduce reliance on carbon to meet future energy demands.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.At the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30), African Development Bank (AfDB), development partners call for major new financing to accelerate Africa’s Great...
At the 30th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, development partners including the African Development Bank (www.AfDB.org), urged for a scale up in financing to deliver the Great Green Wall's 2030 targets.
Currently funded by contributions from Member States and development partners, this African Union initiative aims to restore 100 million hectares of degraded land, sequester 250 million tonnes of carbon and create 10 million jobs in 11 countries in the Sahel region, stretching from Senegal in the west to Djibouti in the east of the continent.
“Despite the support of many countries and institutions, including multilateral development banks such as the African Development Bank and the World Bank, we are still far from meeting the financing needs of the Great Green Wall,” said Ibrahim Sow, special advisor to the Senegalese president on environmental issues.
Sow moderated a session during the climate conference titled ‘Scaling up finance for the Great Green Wall: from climate ambition to integrated action for Land, Nature and People'. The session was organised by the Pan-African Agency for the Great Green Wall, the African Development Bank Group and the World Food Programme, as a forum to discuss strategies for mobilising large-scale financing, including private and innovative resources. The Pan-African Agency for the Great Green Wall, based in Nouakchott, is the implementing body for the Great Green Wall Initiative.
In January 2021, €19 billion in contributions were announced for the Great Green Wall during a round table organised in Paris alongside the One Planet Summit on biodiversity. The African Development Bank, a leading partner in the initiative, indicated that it would contribute approximately $6.5 billion through its ongoing programmes.
“Fifteen years after its launch, the Great Green Wall is moving from vision to implementation. Millions of hectares have been restored, and thousands of green jobs have been created, but significant gaps in financing and capacity remain. To achieve its goals by 2030, enhanced collaboration between African governments, development partners and the private sector is essential,” argued Mr Garba, a former Minister of the Environment for Niger.
Sékou Koné, technical advisor to the Malian Ministry of the Environment, representing its minister, believed that political will, the development of a legal framework to protect investments in the Great Green Wall area and an attractive economic environment would encourage other partners and the private sector to invest. “Our countries must position themselves to access new funds. One example is the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF), which has just been launched by the Brazilian presidency of COP 30, to which 74 countries have said they will sign up,” he said, echoing support for South-South cooperation.
Participants stressed the importance of strengthening institutional capacities, human resources and the very structure of the agency, to ensure it has all the resources it needs to operate effectively.
Al-Hamndou Dorsouma, the African Development Bank's manager for Climate and Green Growth, affirmed the institution's very strong' support for the Great Green Wall.
“In addition to attracting concessional public resources, the Agency should develop a pipeline of bankable projects in land restoration and climate change adaptation, with a view to mobilising new and innovative financing, including blended finance, carbon markets, green bonds and climate funds, in order to bridge the Great Green Wall's financing gap,” Doursouma said.
He cited as an example the Climate Action Window created as part of the 16th replenishment of the African Development Fund (ADF-16) in 2023, which mobilised more than $450 million, enabling it to support 41 projects worth $322 million in its first year of operation, with beneficiaries including countries in the Great Green Wall. He called for enhanced coordination and synergy of action among the partners of the initiative to avoid duplication of actions.
Participants in the session emphasised the need for close involvement of local communities and local authorities, as well as strengthening national structures to enable them to access climate finance directly.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) Provides EUR 135 million Insurance Support for Türkiye’s Strategic Kars–Iğdır–Aralık–Dilucu High Standard...
The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC) (http://ICIEC.IsDB.org), a Shariah-compliant multilateral insurer and member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, has approved EUR 135 million in Non-Honoring of Sovereign Financial Obligations (NHSFO) insurance in support of the Kars-Iğdır-Aralık-Dilucu (KIAD) High Standard Railway Project in the Republic of Türkiye. MUFG Securities EMEA plc arranged the overall transaction, within which a Murabaha financing facility, supported by ICIEC has been structured for the project.
The KIAD Railway is a flagship infrastructure project under Türkiye's 12th Development Plan (2024–2028), spanning 223.9 km from Kars to Dilucu at the Turkish-Azerbaijani border and linking directly to the Kars–Tbilisi–Baku corridor. With five stations serving key districts in the Kars and Iğdır provinces, the line will become a vital segment of the Silk Road Economic Belt, strengthening the Trans-Caspian Middle Corridor as a competitive Asia–Europe freight route.
The Project is set to generate strong economic and environmental impact by shifting freight from road to electrified rail, cutting logistics costs by an estimated 40% by 2030, enhancing supply chain efficiency, and supporting regional industries. It will employ around 3,000 workers at peak construction and stimulate broader economic activity. Its fully electrified, double-track design will also contribute significantly to Türkiye's climate goals, reducing 498,276 tons of CO₂e annually and achieving 95% energy efficiency—placing KIAD among the region's greenest transport initiatives.
Dr. Khalid Khalafalla, CEO of ICIEC, stated, “This strategic investment reflects ICIEC's continued commitment to supporting sustainable, high-impact infrastructure in Türkiye and across our member states. The KIAD Railway strengthens regional connectivity, advances cleaner and more efficient transport solutions, and promotes trade integration between Asia and Europe. Our participation ensures confidence for financiers and helps accelerate completion of this transformative project.”
The Project reinforces ICIEC's mandate to promote inclusive development and integration among member countries. By enhancing freight mobility, supporting economic diversification, and contributing to Türkiye's 2053 Net Zero vision, ICIEC's support advances three key UN Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC).Media Contact:
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About The Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC):
As a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, ICIEC commenced operations in 1994 to strengthen economic relations between OIC Member States and promote intra-OIC trade and investment by providing credit enhancement and risk mitigation solutions. The Corporation is the only Islamic multilateral insurer in the world and has been at the forefront of delivering a comprehensive suite of de-risking solutions to support cross-border trade and investment for its 51 Member States. ICIEC has maintained its "Aa3" rating with a stable outlook from Moody's for 18 consecutive years, positioning the Corporation among the leaders in the Credit and Political Risk Insurance (CPRI) industry. Additionally, S&P has reaffirmed ICIEC's “AA-” rating for the second year with a stable outlook. ICIEC's resilience is underpinned by its sound underwriting practices, global reinsurance network, and strong risk management framework. Since inception, ICIEC has cumulatively insured over USD 121 billion in trade and investment, supporting key sectors such as energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, healthcare, and agriculture in its member states.
For more information, visit http://ICIEC.IsDB.org
Autograph Collection Hotels Celebrates Cape Town’s Seaside Splendor with the Opening of Morea House, Autograph Collection
Inspired by the raw beauty, vibrant culture, and laid-back spirit of Cape Town, Morea House, Autograph Collection, has opened its doors in Camps Bay. The new 90-room hotel joins Autograph Collection Hotels, Marriott Bonvoy's diverse and dynamic portfolio of independent hotels championing individuality.
Set along one of Cape Town's most iconic stretches of coastline, Camps Bay is framed by the turquoise Atlantic Ocean and the dramatic Twelve Apostles mountains. The neighbourhood's palm-lined promenade, sun-soaked beaches, and lively cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops offer a captivating mix of coastal serenity and city energy, providing the backdrop for the Morea House experience.
“Morea House is our first Autograph Collection property in Cape Town, and it reflects the city's spirit at every turn,” said Sandra Schulze-Potgieter, Vice President, Premium, Select & Midscale Brands, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “From the architecture and interiors to the sweeping views of the ocean and mountains, the hotel unfolds as a place to pause, explore, and connect with the Mother City and its people. Every detail invites guests to savour life's pleasures, creating an experience that is personal, soulful, and exactly like nothing else.”
Inspired design rooted in nature
Brought to life by award-winning Cape Town interior architect Tristan du Plessis, Morea House is a celebration of contrasts, inspired by the exquisite beauty surrounding the hotel – bold and sculptural, yet softened by natural textures. Timber, stone, and bronze tones are layered with organic silhouettes, creating interiors that feel refined and inviting.
The 90 guestrooms and suites are an ode to their outlook, whether mountain, ocean, or sand, and are accented with bespoke furniture and tactile embellishments that reflect their surroundings. Public areas unfold as a sequence of sensory discoveries, from the expansive terrace to intimate corners showcasing works by South African artists. Contemporary in execution yet rooted in the city's heritage, each detail is designed to evoke delight, foster connection, and nurture the spirit.
“When guests arrive, our intention is for them to feel as if they've discovered a sanctuary created just for them. We want them to leave restored, reconnected, and carrying with them the essence of this place,” says Albert Smit, General Manager of Morea House. “Whether our guests are seeking a romantic escape, a personal reset, or a base for exploring the Cape's beaches, vineyards, and mountains, Morea House delivers a distinctive experience rooted in place, unlike anywhere else.”
Lebanese flavour meets South African flair
Morea House offers a variety of dining experiences. On the ground floor, OMRI offers modern Lebanese cuisine interpreted through South Africa's coastal influences, using local ingredients and regional flavours. A beach-facing terrace and a welcoming indoor bar create an easy all-day setting, complemented by a considered selection of regional wines.
On the second floor, Morea House Pool Restaurant captures the essence of coastal living – laid-back yet sophisticated, with fresh, seasonal dishes in a serene poolside setting with sweeping ocean views. At sunset, it transforms into the perfect gathering place for golden-hour cocktails.
A few steps away is The Courtyard – a hidden enclave for quiet reflection, reading, or afternoon tea, while The Wine Room provides an intimate venue for private wine tastings and memorable gatherings.
Bespoke wellness experiences
Wellness is at the heart of Morea House, woven seamlessly into every moment - from daily rituals and dining to curated activities. Guests can embrace Cape Town's vibrant outdoors with a dip in the pool, sunrise yoga, coastal walks, or guided mountain hikes. Its signature experience, a guided cold-water immersion in the Atlantic, awakens the senses and forges a profound connection to nature.
The Spa follows a holistic philosophy, designed to restore balance through multi-sensory experiences. Signature treatments include the Morea Elemental Flow, a grounding massage with aromatic fynbos oils, and the Morea Ocean Radiance, a head-to-toe ritual combining a thermal circuit with flowing bodywork and sound therapy for complete renewal.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Marriott International, Inc..For more information and reservation inquiries, please visit www.Marriott.com.
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About Autograph Collection® Hotels:
Autograph Collection Hotels advocates for the original, championing the individuality of each of its over 330 independent hotels located in the most desirable destinations across more than 50 countries and territories. Each hotel is a product of passion, inspired by a clear vision, soul, and story that makes it individual and special: Exactly Like Nothing Else. Hand-selected for their inherent craft and distinct perspectives on design and hospitality, Autograph Collection properties offer rich immersive moments that leave a lasting imprint. For more information, please visit www.AutographHotels.com, and explore on social via Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4oK1Ymn), X (https://apo-opa.co/4iOm3GS), and Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4oR3kvT) to be inspired by immersive moments that are #ExactlyLikeNothingElse. Autograph Collection is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments (http://apo-opa.co/4rPMpMV) and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit www.MarriottBonvoy.com.