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MSGBC 2025 Panel to Explore How Green Hydrogen Can Power West Africa’s Energy Transition
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This year's MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 (www.MSGBCOilGasAndPower.com), taking place December 8-10 in Dakar, Senegal, will feature a dedicated session on Green Hydrogen: Advancing Africa's Advantage and the Rise of Regional Production Alliances. The panel will explore green hydrogen production in the MSGBC basin, emerging regional partnerships and the potential for large-scale industrialization and export.
The session will bring together leading figures in the sector, including Taghiya Abeidarrahmane, Director of Low Carbon Hydrogen, Ministry of Petroleum and Energy, Mauritania; Thierry Lepercq, Founder and CEO, Hydeal Ambition; Prof. Dr. Stefan Liebing, CEO, Conjuncta GmbH; and Mike Scholey, CEO, CWP Global.
Explore opportunities, foster partnerships and stay at the forefront of the MSGBC region's oil, gas and power sector. Visit www.MSGBCOilGasAndPower.com to secure your participation at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Mauritania (https://apo-opa.co/4nRpM7m) is at the forefront of green hydrogen developments in the MSGBC region, with projects leveraging solar and wind resources for industrial-scale hydrogen production. In March 2025, renewable energy company CWP reached a milestone with geological, hydrogeological and seabed bathymetric studies completed for its 30 GW Aman Project – setting the foundation for a facility that aims to produce up to 1.7 million tons of green hydrogen and 10 million tons of green ammonia annually. In February 2025, Danish company GreenGo Energy (https://apo-opa.co/4i3AUNw) signed a framework agreement with the Mauritanian government to develop the 6 GW Megaton Moon Project, securing access to over 100 000 hectares near Nouakchott. The initial phase of the project aims for 500 MW electrolysis, 600 MW onshore wind and 600 MWp solar PV by 2029, producing approximately 339 000 tons of green ammonia annually.
Meanwhile, a 10 GW project developed by renewable energy companies Conjuncta, Masdar and Infinity (https://apo-opa.co/47SpwPF) is in the feasibility phase, targeting an annual output of 8 million tons of green hydrogen. Phase 1 – a 400 MW installation – is scheduled for 2028. The panel is set to unpack how projects of this size are being structured, financed and aligned with national strategies for export‑scale hydrogen hubs, while also examining the emerging regional alliances shaping distribution networks.
Under Mauritania's Green Hydrogen Code and accompanying roadmap, the country is establishing institutional, fiscal and customs frameworks to support large‑scale hydrogen investment. Models include shipping hydrogen as ammonia, developing green iron using domestic mining coalitions and exploring subsea pipelines for export to Europe. As such, panelists during the Green Hydrogen: Advancing Africa's Advantage and the Rise of Regional Production Alliances session are expected to examine how regulatory and export infrastructure mechanisms align with production projects in the region.
“The session will showcase how Africa's green hydrogen projects are moving from vision to reality,” notes Sandra Jeque, Events and Project Director, Energy Capital & Power, adding, “By connecting international investors, regional developers and policymakers, MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 highlights pathways for scaling green hydrogen production and strengthening regional collaboration.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.Egyptian companies mark continued participation at Big 5 Global, strengthening resilient supply chains for construction and infrastructure growth
- Over 65 countries exhibit, with 70% of solutions being international, connecting Egypt's construction stakeholders to global suppliers and technology providers
- Over 2,800 exhibitors showcase low-carbon solutions, modular builds, energy-efficient systems and prefabrication methods that reduce waste and improve resource use
Across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia, urbanization is reshaping economies at unprecedented speed. With more than half the world's population now living in cities, a figure expected to reach nearly 68% by 2050, according to the United Nations (https://apo-opa.co/4oHeBj9), developing regions such as Egypt are accelerating urban transformation through ambitious construction goals, including the development of fourth-generation cities (https://apo-opa.co/4oHeDHN), sustainable infrastructure and inclusive housing to accommodate rapid urbanization and economic growth. As project volumes grow, industry leaders are turning to Big 5 Global (www.Big5Global.com) to explore technologies and solutions that strengthen construction supply chains, improve technological efficiency and advance sustainability.
Bringing together participants from over 165 countries, with 70% solutions from international companies, Big 5 Global connects Egypt's construction and urban development ecosystem to a global network of suppliers, manufacturers and technology providers.
“Egypt continues to expand its construction, infrastructure and urban development ambitions and Big 5 Global provides a great opportunity for local and international stakeholders to connect, explore solutions and enhance project delivery,” said Ahmed Abdel Fattah, Executive Director, Export Council for Building Materials, Refractory & Metallurgy Industries. “Our continued participation highlights the growing role of Egyptian companies in delivering tailored, sustainable and technologically advanced construction solutions that meet the country's modernization goals.”
Strengthening global supply chains for project efficiency
Big 5 Global brings together 2,800 exhibitors and over 60,000 products, services, systems and solutions from around the world, supporting efficient, reliable project delivery.
International pavilions from Germany and Italy return with expertise in advanced materials, including high-performance concrete, cement, marble and stone systems, while India expands its footprint with advanced MEP and smart construction solutions for large-scale projects across the Middle East and Africa. Returning pavilions, Austria and Pakistan, showcase export-ready innovations in modular builds, interiors and MEP systems designed to reduce costs and streamline delivery. Additionally, exhibitors from Armenia, Croatia, Hungary, Jersey, New Zealand, Norway and Serbia further broaden sourcing options for buyers seeking diversified and reliable supply routes.
As supply networks evolve to meet regional demand, technology is driving the next phase of efficiency in project delivery and procurement.
Technology transforming procurement and project delivery
Digitalization is transforming how projects are procured, managed and executed. At Digital Construction World, global exhibitors including Autodesk, Nemetschek Group, Odoo, Premier Construction Software, Procore Technologies, RIB Software and Trimble showcase technologies that enhance visibility and efficiency across the supply chain. Odoo integrates procurement, HR and operations into a single suite, reducing redundancies; Premier Construction Software simplifies cost tracking and project management; Trimble leverages automation to cut site rework by up to 25%, directly improving delivery times and project profitability; and Meter Technology demonstrates its fully integrated digital solution that transforms surveying and engineering, eliminating decades-old inefficiencies.
Eng. Ahmed Al-Ansary, Chairman, Founder & CEO of Meter Technology, commented: “Meter transforms surveying and engineering from traditional to tech-driven. As the world's first fully integrated digital platform, we've eliminated decades-old inefficiencies. Our AI-powered system completes complex projects within 48 hours with exceptional precision across nine countries. Big 5 Global offers the opportunity to connect with industry leaders and explore sector development worldwide under ‘From the UAE to the World', where geospatial and engineering digital innovation forms the foundation of real estate sustainability.”
Sustainable manufacturing and smarter material supply
International exhibitors are also rethinking how materials are produced, transported and reused to reduce environmental impact while improving long-term value.
China's new Eco-Friendly Zone is built entirely from recyclable materials and features solutions for low-carbon construction, showcasing how sustainability can be integrated throughout the supply chain.
Among key participants, Grundfos Gulf Distribution leads with energy-efficient pumping systems that reduce water and energy use in commercial and industrial facilities. Deewan Equipment Trading LLC introduces modular and precast manufacturing plants that cut onsite waste and shorten construction schedules through prefabrication. Hitech Concrete Products showcases precast hollow-core and insulated wall systems designed for thermal efficiency and reduced raw material consumption, advancing sustainable construction practices across the region.
GF, a leading provider of MEP solutions and sustainable building technologies, returns to Big 5 Global to showcase its advanced systems that support efficient construction workflows and environmentally responsible project delivery. "The region is pursuing one of the world's most ambitious development programs, where sustainable water management is key to realizing this vision. GF is uniquely positioned to support this progress through its comprehensive solutions portfolio, our local presence including manufacturing, offsite-manufacturing and customer experience facilities, long-standing regional partnerships and dedicated teams who understand the market's unique challenges," said Michael Rauterkus, Executive Committee member of GF and President of GF Building Flow Solutions.
These contributions highlight how collaboration with global manufacturers helps the UAE advance smart cities and net-zero goals.
“Big 5 Global continues to connect international manufacturers and regional stakeholders, helping strengthen construction supply chains and advance sustainable growth across the built environment,” said Josine Heijmans, Vice President, dmg events. “As the UAE accelerates towards its smart city and net-zero goals, these international partnerships bring practical, scalable solutions that support project efficiency, quality and delivery.”
Big 5 Global is supported by leading sponsors and partners, including Ministry of Energy & Infrastructure, Dubai Civil Defense, Ministry of Economy and Tourism, Dubai Municipality, Department of Municipalities and Transport, Ras Al Khaima Municipality, Riyadh Region Municipality, Meter Technology, Schüco, Alumil, Italian Trade Agency, Arabian Gulf Steel Industries (AGSI), GF, Dubai Investments Park, Würth Professional Solutions, MIE Groups, Daikin, Hisense, TCL, Gulf-O-Flex, DAC Group, DeWalt, Nassar Stone and Nemetschek Group.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Big 5 Global.For media inquiries, please contact:
Deepra Ahluwalia
Action PR
deepra.a@actionprgroup.com
971 56 477 0995
Nour Ibrahim
Action PR
nour.i@actionprgroup.com
971 54 425 0187
Khushie Mallya
PR Executive
Construction, dmg events
khushiemallya@dmgevents.com
Ranju Warrier
Head of PR & Communications
Construction, dmg events
ranjuwarrier@dmgevents.com
About Big 5 Global:
With a 45-year legacy, Big 5 Global is the largest and most influential building and construction event in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia and the annual meeting hub for the global construction industry. Taking place from 24 – 27 November 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Big 5 Global attracts more than 85,000 global attendees from over 165 countries and 2,800 exhibitors to UAE covering the full construction and urban development cycle across dedicated sectors and nine specialized events enabling industry professionals to source worldwide building solutions for every stage of construction: Heavy, Totally Concrete, Marble & Stone World, Urban Design & Landscape, Windows, Doors & Facades, HVACR World, LiveableCitiesX, GeoWorld and Future FM.
For more information and to register, visit: www.Big5Global.com
Africa Day at 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30): Advancing Sustainable Financing for a Green and Resilient Future
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Africa marked Africa Day at COP30 under the theme “At the Forefront of Climate Action: Sustainable Financing for Inclusive and Resilient Green Growth,” reaffirming the continent's united call for a new era of climate finance that delivers for people, planet, and prosperity.
The event, held in Belém, brought together ministers, development partners, and representatives from the African Union Commission (AUC), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), and Afreximbank, alongside civil society and youth representatives.
Ten years after the signing of the Paris Agreement, the global community faces a critical reckoning: climate pledges have yet to match reality. Global warming targets remain off-track, financing falls short, and the gap between promise and delivery continues to widen. For Africa — home to 20 percent of the world's carbon sinks, responsible for less than four percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, yet receiving under 10 percent of adaptation finance and only three percent of total climate funding—the consequences are existential.
Building on the Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) and the Addis Ababa Declaration on Climate Change and Call to Action, Africa Day at COP30 amplified the continent's message: climate finance must work for Africa.
H.E. Moses Vilakati, AUC Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment at Africa Day, gave a message reaffirming Africa's united negotiating stance and leadership on climate justice.
“Africa speaks with one voice bold, united, and leading on climate justice. From Africa to Belém, Africa stands united in purpose and action reaffirming its leadership on climate justice, grounded in equity and the principles of common but differentiated responsibilities,” he declared, adding:
“We are not passive recipients of the global transition but active architects of fair, inclusive, and African led climate solutions that shall shape a fair and green global future.”
Discussions focused on mobilising sustainable, equitable, and innovative finance to accelerate Africa's green industrialization. Leaders highlighted that the continent's future lies in leveraging its abundant natural resources for value addition and local manufacturing — from processing critical minerals to scaling renewable energy solutions.
“Africa already stands at the forefront of global climate action, shaping solutions that are both locally grounded and globally relevant,” said Dr Kevin Kariuki, Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth of the African Development Bank Group.
He added: “Currently, we are driven by a new vision articulated by our President Dr Sidi Ould Tah, to sharpen the Bank's focus around four strategic priorities – referred to as the Four Cardinal Points to unlock Africa's Capital Power; enhance the continent's financial sovereignty; turn demographics into a dividend; and build resilient infrastructure, while adding real value.
Addressing climate change is central to this bold and ambitious agenda. We are therefore taking decisive steps to close Africa's sustainable financing gap, strengthen Africa's adaptive capacity, and to generally accelerate climate action through innovation, partnerships, and financial leadership.”
Africa is among the world's leading producers of key minerals such as cobalt, manganese, and other critical raw materials, yet it captures only a small share of their final value. By investing in local beneficiation, battery manufacturing, and regional value chains, the continent aims to shift from exporting raw materials to becoming a global hub for innovation and green industrial production.
Africa also holds immense untapped carbon market potential, yet captures less than 1 percent of global revenue. With reforms and African-led governance, the market could generate up to $100 billion annually and create five million green jobs by 2030.
Participants emphasised the urgency of reforming the global financial system to shift from debt-based models to direct, grant-based, and Africa-owned solutions. Despite promises at COP29, only a fraction of global climate funds reaches African communities. Africa Day reiterated the continent's call for a new collective quantified goal on climate finance that meets the scale and urgency of its needs.
Speaking on behalf of the Executive Secretary of the ECA, Cosmas Milton Ochieng, Director of the Climate Change, Food Security and Natural Resources Division, said: “Reshaping the global financial architecture is not just a matter of fairness but a prerequisite for survival.”
He added: “Africa needs a predictable, transparent, and equitable climate finance system that channels resources directly to where they are needed most: in the hands of African countries and communities driving transformative climate action.”
The call for sustainable domestic financing was equally strong. Africa holds over $350 billion in sovereign and pension funds that could be redirected toward green infrastructure, resilience, and innovation. Mobilising these domestic resources alongside external partnerships will be key to achieving the continent's Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Africa Day at COP30 was not merely a commemoration — it was a declaration of intent.
Leaders called for fair carbon pricing, direct access to climate finance, and a just transition that ensures no African is left behind. African countries are calling for full implementation of the commitments made in Baku, particularly the mobilisation of $300 billion in climate finance for Africa.
COP29 in Baku fell short of delivering the resources needed to address the continent's climate crisis. Despite calls for a global annual goal of $1.3 trillion by 2030, including $300 billion earmarked for Africa, systemic challenges remained unresolved. African leaders had urged for debt-free grants and direct access to funds through African institutions such as the AfDB.
However, the final agreement favoured loan-based financing and reliance on external intermediaries, leaving nearly 60 percent of climate funds as debt obligations for African economies.
As the world looks to Belém for delivery, Africa's message is clear: the continent is not seeking charity but partnership—a new global climate compact that recognis>es Africa's leadership, rewards its environmental stewardship, and invests in its people.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).Media contact:
Communications and External Relations Department
media@afdb.org
About Africa Day at COP30:
Africa Day at COP30 serves as the continent's flagship event at the UN Climate Change Conference, offering a platform to highlight Africa's leadership in climate action and advocate for equitable access to climate finance. The event embodies the shared vision of Africa's institutions to build a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future for all Africans.
International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) Strengthens Comoros’ Energy Security and Food Resilience with Innovative Trade Finance Solutions
The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (www.ITFC-IDB.org), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, continues to make significant progress in its partnership with the Union of Comoros, delivering impactful trade finance solutions to bolster the country's energy security, food supply, and economic diversification.
With no domestic oil production and modest agricultural output, Comoros depends heavily on imports to power its economy and sustain its population of approximately 850,000. Since 2008, ITFC has emerged as a critical partner, approving over US$799.3 million in trade finance to support the country's development priorities.
Powering a Nation Through Energy Financing
Since its inception, ITFC has approved US$655.4 million in energy financing for Comoros, accounting for over 80% of all ITFC support to the country. This investment has allowed Comoros to secure all its annual imports of refined petroleum products, estimated at 100,000 m³, ensuring the stability of its energy supply even amid global price shocks.
In 2023, ITFC partnered with Société Comorienne des Hydrocarbures (SCH), the state-owned hydrocarbons company, to implement an Integrated Trade Solution (ITS) that combined financing with capacity building. As part of a Reverse Linkage program, SCH staff trained at Tunisia's STIR Refinery, gaining vital skills in trade negotiations, Islamic finance, and oil storage management. This initiative safeguards around 480 direct jobs, with nearly 200 of them held by women. Over 70% of petroleum imports are sourced from OIC member countries, reinforcing intra-OIC trade and regional cooperation.
Securing Food Supply Amid Global Price Shocks
In 2024, ITFC approved a new EUR 20 million trade finance facility to strengthen food security in the Union of Comoros. The facility will finance the import of essential staple foods, including rice, flour, sugar, oil, and meat, providing critical support to the nation's food supply chain.
In 2023, Comoros imported 91,929.94 metric tons of foodstuffs valued at EUR 62.7 million. The new facility will cover about 31.9% of annual food procurement needs, enabling households to access food at more affordable prices. This financing supports 50 to 75 local micro and small enterprises, sustaining over 2,500 jobs. Since its establishment, ITFC has provided over US$143.9 million in financing to support the food security and agriculture sector.
Additionally, ITFC promotes Islamic finance in Comoros through its partnership with local banks, namely, AFG Bank and BDC. This expands access to Letters of Credit (L/C) confirmation facilities and strengthens the domestic financial sector, aligning with the government's diversification agenda.
Through these strategic interventions, ITFC continues to play a vital role in advancing Comoros' sustainable development agenda by ensuring energy security, strengthening food systems, and empowering local enterprises. The Corporation's integrated trade finance solutions enhance resilience to external shocks and promote inclusive economic growth and regional cooperation.
Watch the Comoros project video - https://apo-opa.co/3LDt6Wv
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).Contact Us:
Tel: +966 12 646 8337
Fax: +966 12 637 1064
E-mail: ITFC@itfc-idb.org
Follow International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC):
Twitter: @ ITFCCORP
Facebook: @ ITFCCORP
LinkedIn: International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC)
About the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC):
The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) is a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group. It was established with the primary objective of advancing trade among OIC member countries, which would ultimately contribute to the overarching goal of improving the socioeconomic conditions of the people across the world. Commencing operations in January 2008, ITFC has provided US$89 billion of financing to OIC member countries, making it the leading provider of trade solutions for these member countries' needs. With a mission to become a catalyst for trade development for OIC member countries and beyond, the Corporation helps entities in member countries gain better access to trade finance and provides them with the necessary trade-related capacity-building tools, which would enable them to successfully compete in the global market.
South Africa can Realize its Gas Potential with a Balanced Gas-to-Liquids Strategy (By NJ Ayuk)
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By NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber (https://EnergyChamber.org/)
It is not an exaggeration to say that South Africa's offshore gas discoveries offer up a potential economic transformation for the country that would be on par with Guyana's oil-driven boom or Suriname's emerging energy sector.
Estimates for the Luiperd-Brulpadda gas-condensate project, in Block 11B/12B off South Africa's southern coast, gauge its holdings at 3.4 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of gas and 192 million barrels of gas condensate. Production at this site would equate to thousands of jobs and a revitalization of regions like Mossel Bay, where South Africa's gas-to-liquids refinery once fueled local employment and industry before declining production forced cutbacks.
Unfortunately, this could all be just wishful thinking, as TotalEnergies' exit from this project in 2024 revealed a critical barrier.
South Africa's gas potential is currently locked up, partly because of legal challenges initiated by environmental activist groups that halted projects to the tune of USD1.6 billion, but also due to the inability of all parties involved to come to an agreement on gas purchase pricing.
The GTL Solution
A gas-to-liquids (GTL) strategy — one that links prices to liquefied natural gas (LNG) spot markets and includes meaningful community engagement — would help balance the needs of upstream investors, downstream users, and the coastal communities while delivering sustainable growth for the rest of the nation.
The gas pricing dilemma is the main obstacle.
Upstream companies like TotalEnergies demand dollar-based contracts to mitigate currency risk and ensure returns on their substantial exploration investments. The South African government is justifiably wary of dollar-denominated agreements and would prefer rand-based prices to protect local consumers and maintain affordability. The impasse TotalEnergies encountered on this issue is one of the factors behind their withdrawal from Block 11B/12B, despite their promising, hard-won discoveries at the site.
The domestic market complicates the situation even further.
Electricity producers require low gas prices, as they operate on slim margins once carbon costs are accounted for. Upstream operators, on the other hand, need to collect higher prices to justify the development of their capital-intensive deepwater projects. Meanwhile, the global LNG market is expected to remain saturated for the next three to five years, making the export of gas in the form of LNG a less competitive option for now. Without a pricing compromise, South Africa's gas remains untapped, leaving behind all the profit and opportunity it represents.
A GTL strategy offers a multifaceted solution, however. By revitalizing the PetroSA GTL facility in Mossel Bay and converting natural gas into high-value liquid fuels like diesel and kerosene on site, South Africa could cut its reliance on fuel imports, strengthen its energy security, and extend employment opportunities to thousands of workers.
The precedent is clear: In Suriname, TotalEnergies' GranMorgu deepwater project is set to generate 6,000 local jobs and inject at least USD1 billion into the economy. A similar initiative at the dormant Mossel Bay facility could transform South Africa's southern coast, providing the government with fresh revenue and wider economic stability.
This is not mere optimism; this gameplan would be a practical means of leveraging existing infrastructure to drive regional development. But, once again, the economic viability of a GTL strategy as a solution for South African gas production hinges on securing a gas pricing agreement that satisfies the needs of both producers and consumers.
To resolve this pricing stalemate, South Africa should adopt a formula that ties the gas purchase price to the global LNG spot price, minus a percentage to reflect the absence of liquefaction and transportation costs. This approach would allow upstream companies to receive dollar-based payments, satisfying their financial requirements while aligning with the inherent shifts in the global market. Downstream, power producers and GTL operators would enjoy the affordability of discounted pricing, making projects economically feasible at both ends of the supply chain.
Furthermore, the government could incentivize GTL development through tax breaks, infrastructure subsidies, or public-private partnerships, so the economic benefits of these projects would be more likely to outweigh the initial costs. This pricing model would be a fair compromise that avoids the pitfalls of rand-based contracts and meets the needs of all stakeholders.
Additional Roadblocks
Overcoming environmental opposition is another critical step toward progress in gas development, and overlooking community engagement in this regard only empowers non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to challenge projects in court. Petroleum Agency SA's community awareness campaigns, which educate locals about the benefits and risks of gas development, offer a model for improvement in this area. Expanding such efforts to include early and transparent engagement in the environmental impact assessment (EIA) process would help build trust and reduce grounds for legal action.
Town hall meetings and accessible EIA summaries would be a means of highlighting the economic benefits of a GTL strategy. By involving communities as stakeholders, the government and industry can work together to demonstrate that gas development can create shared prosperity.
The implementation of a GTL strategy is itself another way of addressing the legal pushback brought against South African exploration projects. Liquid fuels produced domestically reduce emissions by avoiding long-distance shipping, meaning that a GTL strategy is already in alignment with environmental goals from the start. Emphasizing the lower carbon footprint of a GTL operation would go a long way in gaining public approval of the project, but the government must still work to speed up the permitting process by establishing clear, time-bound guidelines for EIAs and consultations. Mechanisms should also be put in place to limit repetitive, post-approval legal challenges and allow projects to proceed without endless litigation.
A dedicated task force of industry, government, and local representatives would strengthen South Africa's negotiating power and help hold projects accountable to environmental and social standards.
A Collaborative Path Forward
Extracting and monetizing the gas resources held in Block 11B/12B and elsewhere could be a course-correcting game-changer for South Africa, but doing so to the greatest possible benefit requires bold, collaborative action. For South Africa to truly benefit from its gas resources, President Cyril Ramaphosa's administration must move beyond the traditional focus on coal and mining, prioritize gas development, and embrace the potential of a GTL strategy.
By reviving the defunct Mossel Bay GTL facility and implementing a pricing model tied to LNG spot prices, the government can satisfy the needs of both upstream and downstream stakeholders while creating jobs for South Africans and reducing their dependency on imports. Simplifying the permit process and expanding community engagement would address environmental concerns so that projects can move forward without unnecessary delays or lawsuits.
With decisive leadership and a commitment to balance, South Africa can transform its gas potential into a catalyst for sustainable growth and secure a prosperous future, not just for the industry, but for the nation as a whole.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Experts to Speak at MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 in Dakar
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Two senior officials from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) – Dr. Ali Dehghan, Senior Supply Analyst, and Eng. Mohammed Attaba, Senior Downstream Oil Industry Analyst – have been confirmed as featured speakers at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference and exhibition. Taking place in Dakar from December 9-10, the event will be held under the High Patronage of Senegal's President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye.
Energy supermajor Chevron (https://apo-opa.co/3WSqAhr) officially entered Guinea-Bissau's offshore sector in November 2025 through a landmark agreement to operate Blocks 5B and 6B. The move marks a significant expansion of Chevron's West African exploration portfolio, strengthening its presence across one of the continent's most promising frontier regions. As such, Dr. Dehghan and Eng. Attaba's participation exemplifies OPEC's growing engagement with the rapidly developing energy markets of the MSGBC basin, where major oil, gas and hydrogen projects are reshaping the regional energy landscape.
Explore opportunities, foster partnerships and stay at the forefront of the MSGBC region's oil, gas and power sector. Visit www.MSGBCOilGasAndPower.com to secure your participation at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.
This year's edition marks a moment of historic progress across the region. Senegal has emerged as an oil producing nation, with first oil from the 100,000-barrel-per-day Sangomar field (https://apo-opa.co/4nSepMG) achieving first oil in June 2024. Production forecasts for 2025 have since been revised upward to 34.5 million barrels, up from the previous forecast of 20.53 million barrels. Meanwhile, Mauritania and Senegal recently achieved first gas production from the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) LNG project in December 2024 – followed by its first LNG export in April 2025 – strengthening the countries' integrated gas-to-power strategies and domestic refining capabilities.
Meanwhile, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau and Guinea-Conakry are intensifying exploration efforts to attract investment. Chevron's entry into Guinea-Bissau, ongoing data acquisition campaigns in Mauritania and Guinea-Conakry and new partnerships across the basin mark a rising confidence in the MSGBC region's frontier potential.
As such, Dr. Dehghan, who plays a key role in analyzing global oil supply dynamics within OPEC's Research Division, is well-positioned to offer insights into production forecasts and market trends while contributing to discussions on new production and export milestones across the basin. Furthermore, Eng. Attaba – a leading voice in refining and downstream analysis at OPEC – regularly represents the OPEC Secretariat at international forums, providing expertise on the medium- and long-term outlook for the downstream sector.
“Having OPEC representatives join the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference underscores the basin's growing significance in global energy discussions. Their insights will provide valuable context as the region transitions from exploration to large-scale production and export. This engagement reflects OPEC's recognition of the MSGBC basin as one of Africa's most dynamic emerging energy frontiers,” states Sandra Jeque, Events and Project Director, Energy Capital & Power.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Senegal to Host Exclusive Workshop on Local Content, Gas Sector Development at MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025
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Non-profit organization the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) Senegal will host a dedicated pre-conference workshop as part of this year's edition of the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference and exhibition. Taking place on December 8 in Dakar, the session will bring together industry professionals, government representatives and investors to explore local content opportunities, gas field management challenges and strategies for production optimization in Senegal's rapidly growing energy sector.
Established in December 2024, SPE Senegal is the local chapter of the global Society of Petroleum Engineers. It supports professionals and students across the energy sector and aims to enhance technical expertise and capacity building in Senegal, a country that has emerged as a new oil and gas producer.
Explore opportunities, foster partnerships and stay at the forefront of the MSGBC region's oil, gas and power sector. Visit www.MSGBCOilGasAndPower.com to secure your participation at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.
Senegal's oil sector has seen accelerated development following first oil (https://apo-opa.co/3LFaaqg) from the $5 billion Sangomar Phase 1 project, operated by Woodside Energy in partnership with state-owned Petrosen. Since starting operations in June last year, production from the project has ramped to over 94% capacity, delivering early reserves additions of more than 31 million barrels of oil equivalent. Meanwhile, the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (https://apo-opa.co/3Lz2sOx) gas project achieved first gas in December 2024, with commercial operations commencing in June 2025. The joint venture, led by bp, Kosmos Energy, Petrosen and Mauritania's SMH, is designed to produce 2.5 million tons of LNG annually in its first phase, consolidating Senegal's position as a regional energy hub.
At the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 workshop, SPE Senegal will guide participants through three key areas: local content opportunities in gas infrastructure, gas field management challenges and development strategies for production optimization. Local content opportunities will include gas-to-power projects, floating LNG support services, pipeline network development, and logistics and supply chain management. These initiatives align with Senegal's 2021 Local Content Law, which encourages the use of national goods, services and labor across the energy sector.
The session will also address technical and commercial challenges, including infrastructure gaps, deepwater field complexity, market volatility and balancing LNG exports with domestic energy needs. SPE Senegal is set to showcase strategies to enhance production efficiency through digitalization, capacity building and governance transparency, while also highlighting environmental, social and governance priorities.
The workshop offers a unique opportunity for stakeholders to engage with Senegal's emerging energy sector and gain insights into optimizing local participation and long-term project value. As the country ramps up its oil and gas output, the session underscores the critical role of technical expertise, collaboration and strategic planning in unlocking sustainable growth.
“SPE Senegal's workshop at this year's conference exemplifies the country's commitment to fostering knowledge-sharing and technical excellence in the MSGBC region. Attendees will undoubtedly gain valuable perspectives on local content opportunities, production optimization and effective strategies for managing Senegal's emerging gas and oil fields,” states Sandra Jeque, Events and Project Director, Energy Capital & Power.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.S&P Global Ratings’ Samira Mensah Joins African Energy Chamber (AEC) G20 Forum as Africa Seeks to Close Investment Gap
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With an energy finance gap estimated between $30 billion and $50 billion per year, Africa is pursuing diversified sources of financing to address this shortfall and advance strategic projects. Aligned with goals by the continent to make energy poverty history, the African Energy Chamber's (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org/) upcoming G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum seeks to close this gap by connecting global capital to African projects. Samira Mensah, Managing Director, Regional Head Africa & Country Head South Africa, S&P Global Ratings, is speaking at the forum, where she is expected to share insight into investment trends, credit ratings and strategies for securing capital in an ever-changing global context.
While Africa's energy potential is well-known – with over 125 billion barrels of proven oil reserves, 620 trillion cubic feet of proven gas and abundant renewable energy potential – high borrowing costs, perceived credit risks and limited access to long-term financing remain an impediment to project development. In tandem, global pressures to advance the energy transition has seen funding for oil and gas projects significantly fall, delaying African projects and impacting efforts to enhance energy security across the continent. Within this scenario, organizations such as S&P Global Ratings plays a crucial role, shaping market confidence and supporting capital access through transparent risk evaluation. The organization's research has consistently highlighted the importance of developing robust domestic capital markets, enhancing sovereign creditworthiness and leveraging blended finance and guarantees to reduce the cost of borrowing for African issuers.
While perceived credit risk continues to impact projects in Africa, recent trends have seen a continental push toward closing Africa's energy financing gap. The $5 billion Africa Energy Bank – spearheaded by the African Petroleum Producers Organization and Afreximbank – is making rapid gains in raising funds, offering an alternative, home-grown solution to raising capital. Development finance is gaining traction, evidenced by the U.S.-Export-Import Bank re-approving a loan of up to $4.7 billion to support the development of the TotalEnergies-led Mozambique LNG project. The African Development Bank also reached a record of $11 billion in new investments approved in Africa between 2024 and 2025. International energy companies are ramping-up their spending. Eni is investing $8 billion in Algeria, backed by a deal signed with Sonatrach, while ExxonMobil could invest as much as $15 billion in Angola's Namibe basin following successful drilling. African M&A transactions also saw a significant increase, totaling $2.7 billion in H1, 2025 alone.
The upcoming G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum builds on this momentum by offering insight into Africa's energy opportunities. The forum follows the African Energy Week 2025 conference, where a Premier Invest-led Deal Room identified up to $13.4 billion project opportunities across the upstream, midstream, downstream and renewable energy segments. By connecting global financiers with African stakeholders, the G20 Forum aims to drive projects forward while addressing challenges such as perceived risk and market uncertainty. Mensah's participation will bring technical depth to discussions on how sovereign and corporate ratings can catalyze investment in Africa's oil, gas and power sectors, particularly as countries pursue both expansion and transition agendas.
“Closing Africa's energy investment gap is not only about mobilizing capital, it is about changing perceptions, improving credit risk assessments and creating confidence in African markets. Institutions like S&P Global Ratings play a vital role in helping investors see the full picture: that Africa is not a risk to be avoided, but an opportunity to be embraced,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.
To register for the Forum click here (https://apo-opa.co/443y98Q).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.Eskom’s Alfred Seema Joins African Energy Chamber (AEC) G20 Forum Amid Focus on Improved Generation, Strategic Partnerships
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Alfred Seema, Group Executive: Strategic Delivery Unit of South Africa's state-owned power utility Eskom, has been confirmed as a speaker at the African Energy Chamber's G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum (https://EnergyChamber.org/) – taking place November 21 in Johannesburg. Seema's participation comes as the company accelerates a General Recovery Plan, striving to enhance energy security and generation capacity across the country. His participation is expected to unlock new pathways for global partnerships as the country pursues a just energy transition.
Eskom has been at the forefront of addressing South Africa's loadshedding crisis through targeted policies. The company launched a Load Reduction Elimination Strategy in September 2025, offering a clear roadmap to strengthen the country's distribution network and address high-risk isolated areas. The program takes a three-phased approach, including expanding free basic electricity access from the current 485,000 households to 2.1 million households; accelerating the rollout of smart meters, with 6.2 million planned over the next three years; and deploying distributed energy resources, with 250 set to be installed over the next five years. Eskom is also rolling out a Generation Recovery Plan, aimed at strengthening energy supply. Since August 2025, generation performance has improved significantly under the plan, with the Energy Availability Factor reaching 70%. Between October 1 and 23 alone, the Unplanned Capability Loss Factor reduced to 22.8%, reflecting a marginal improvement compared to the same period in 2024.
Looking ahead, Eskom's generation strategy focuses on a dual approach of improving the existing fleet and transitioning to cleaner sources of fuel. Aligned with South Africa's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), the company aims to develop a balanced energy mix that incorporates all sources of energy. The IRP 2025 offers a clear investment roadmap for the power sector, targeting 105 GW of new generation capacity by 2039. This includes 5.3 GW of new nuclear capacity – expandable to 10 GW – as well as 34 GW of onshore wind, 25 GW of utility-scale solar, 8.2 GW of storage and 16 GW of gas-to-power. The plan also envisages the development of a Clean-Coal Technologies Demonstration Plan by 2030. Eskom is currently reviewing the IRP 2025 and will publish its own updated strategic plan.
The generation strategy has already begun to yield positive results. In November 2025, Eskom announced that its Koeberg Nuclear Power Station has secured a 20-year license extension, with both of its units expected to deliver 1,860 MW of baseload power until 2045. This follows the announcement of simplified compliance and registration processes for customers who generate their own electricity through Small-Scale Embedded Generation, enabling private players to invest in generation infrastructure. In September 2025, Eskom achieved commercial operations at Unit 6 at the Kusile Power Station, marking the end of construction of the Medupi and Kusile coal plants. Together, the two facilities deliver up to 9,600 MW of power. These projects form a cornerstone of Eskom's generation strategy, signaling the company's commitment to diversified energy development in South Africa.
Meanwhile, as part of a strategic restructuring, the South African government has begun the process of unbundling Eskom by separating the company into three entities: generation, transmission and distribution. While operating under Eskom, the companies will function as separate entities under efforts to strengthen efficiency, attract private investment and enhance competition across the sector. To date, the transmission entity – the National Transmission Company of South Africa – has been established and began operations in July 2024. However, to successfully complete the unbundling process, challenges associated with financial viability need to be addressed. The G20 Forum supports these goals be connecting global capital to South African power projects and partners.
“South Africa's path to energy security depends on embracing a truly diversified mix. Eskom generation plan marks a decisive shift toward balanced growth. Through platforms like the G20 Africa Energy Investment Forum, we can attract the right partners and capital to strengthen South Africa's generation base and ensure every household and industry benefits from affordable, dependable power,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.
To register for the Forum click here (https://apo-opa.co/47TjSwG).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.30th United Nations Climate Conference (COP 30): Multilateral development banks reaffirm their commitment to climate finance, pledge innovative funding for adaptation
Multilateral development banks on Monday reaffirmed their commitment to climate finance, pledging to scale up innovative funding to boost climate adaptation and resilience.
"Financing climate resilience is not a cost, but an investment." This was the key message from senior MDB officials at the end of a side event organised by the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) on the opening day of the 30th United Nations Climate Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil. The conference runs from 10 to 21 November.
During a panel discussion titled "Accelerating large-scale climate change adaptation,” MDB representatives, including the African Development Bank Group, outlined how their institutions are fulfilling Paris Agreement commitments by mobilising substantial and innovative resources for climate adaptation and mitigation.
Climate resilience: an investment opportunity
Ilan Goldfajn, President of the Inter-American Development Bank Group, emphasised that "resilience is more than a concern for the future: it is also essential for development today." He announced that MDBs are tripling their financing for resilience over the next decade, targeting $42 billion by 2030.
"At the Inter-American Development Bank, we are turning preparedness into protection and resilience into opportunity," Goldfajn added.
Tanja Faller, Director of Technical Evaluation and Monitoring at the Council of Europe Development Bank, stressed that climate change "not only creates new threats, but also amplifies existing inequalities. The most socially vulnerable people are the hardest hit and the last to recover. This is how a climate crisis also becomes a social crisis."
Representatives from the Islamic Development Bank, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank Group, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the European Investment Bank, the New Development Bank and IDB Invest (the private sector arm of the Inter-American Development Bank Group) also shared concrete examples of successful adaptation investments and strategies for mobilising new resources.
The African Development Bank leads by example
Kevin Kariuki, Vice President of the African Development Bank Group in charge of Power, Energy, Climate and Green Growth, presented the Bank's leadership in advancing climate adaptation and mitigation. "At the African Development Bank, we understand the priorities of our countries: adaptation and mitigation are at the heart of our climate interventions."
He highlighted the creation of the Climate Action Window, a new financing mechanism under the African Development Fund, the Bank Group's concessional window for low-income countries.
"The African Development Bank is the only multilateral development bank with a portfolio of adaptation projects ready for investment through the Climate Action Window," Kariuki noted, adding that Germany, the United Kingdom and Switzerland are among key co-financing partners.
Kariuki also showcased the Bank's YouthADAPT programme, which has invested $5.4 million in 41 youth-led enterprises across 20 African countries, generating more than 10,000 jobs -- 61 percent of which are led by women, and mobilising an additional $7 million in private and donor funding.
Representatives from Zambia, Mozambique and Jamaica also shared local perspectives on the financing needs of communities most exposed to climate risk.
Lula launches his COP in the Amazon
The panel followed the official opening of COP30, marked by a passionate appeal from Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for greater climate investment to prevent a "tragedy for humanity."
"Without the Paris Agreement, we would see a 4–5°C increase in global temperatures," Lula warned. “Our call to action is based on three pillars: honouring commitments; accelerating public action with a roadmap enabling humanity to move away from fossil fuels and deforestation; and placing humanity at the heart of the climate action programme: thousands of people are living in poverty and deprivation as a result of climate change."
"The climate emergency is a crisis of inequality,” he continued. “We must build a future that is not doomed to tragedy. We must ensure that we live in a world where we can still dream."
Outgoing COP President Mukhtar Babayevn, Azerbaijan's Minister of Ecology, urged developed nations to fulfil their promises made at the Baku Conference, including commitments to mobilise $300 billion in climate finance. He called for stronger political will and multilateral cooperation, before handing over the COP presidency to Brazilian diplomat André Corrêa do Lago, who now leads the negotiations.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).Media contact:
Romaric Ollo Hien,
Department of Communication and External Relations,
media@afdb.org
