africa-energy-chamber

As a confirmed speaker and participant at African Energy Week in Cape Town, Arnaud Breuillac will promote African exploration and production, leading a constructive discussion on the role of oil and gas in Africa’s energy future.

Arnaud Breuillac, President – Exploration & Production, TotalEnergies, has confirmed his attendance and participation at African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 taking place in Cape Town on the 9^th-12^th of November. Representing one of the seven supermajor oil companies worldwide, and one of Africa’s most active oil and gas explorers and producers, Breuillac’s participation at AEW 2021 is significant and speaks to the caliber of the event as Africa’s premier energy conference. By networking and participating in AEW 2021’s comprehensive event program, Breuillac will promote the role of oil and gas in Africa’s energy future, showcase some of TotalEnergies greatest achievements, and emphasize the value of an Africa-centric energy transition in which natural gas plays a major role.

Active in more than 130 countries worldwide and with an extensive footprint across the African continent, TotalEnergies is one of Africa’s top oil explorers and producers – producing more than 900,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2019. TotalEnergies remains committed to exploring Africa with several large-scale E&P projects, and Breuillac’s participation at AEW 2021 will only enhance the company’s objectives in this area. Notably, the French oil major’s production in sub-Saharan Africa predominantly focuses on Angola, Nigeria, the Congo and Gabon – the Gulf of Guinea makes up 25% of the company’s production. With existing exploration stakes in the Gulf of Guinea, the company has redirected its attention to exploration within West Africa – through stakes in Mauritania, Senegal, Guinea and Côte d’ivoire – as well in Southern Africa with stakes in Namibia and South Africa. If early seismic data is to be believed, compared to Angola there is equal, if not even more, promise in new discoveries offshore Namibia. Currently, all eyes are on Total’s possibly play-opening Venus 1- prospect, which may turn out to be the largest discovery in Africa in a decade. An ultra-deepwater well in the Orange Basin, which straddles the border with South Africa, Venus-1 is thought to have at least 2 billion barrels of oil in place. If Venus-1 is successful, it’s like to attract even more attention to the area. Fortunately, the Namibian government’s oil-friendly policies make it easy for foreign companies to do business there. The fiscal regime is positive, and the state-owned oil company, the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (NAMCOR), is a cooperative partner. It also helps that Namibia is politically stable and has some of the best-developed infrastructure on the continent, including a modern electricity distribution grid. Like its neighbors to the west, South Africa has been the site of considerable excitement over frontier discoveries, including Total’s Brulpadda, which opened up the Outeniqua basin in 2019. Brulpadda is considered a world-class oil and gas play that holds as much as 1 billion barrels of oil equivalent of gas and condensate light oil.

In line with AEW 2021’s oil and gas agenda, Breuillac’s participation will enhance a discussion on African E&P, showcasing the company’s achievements and future objectives.

Meanwhile, in addition to being one of Africa’s biggest oil explorers, TotalEnergies has turned a focus to natural gas, recognizing the role of the resource as an intermediary in the energy transition and capitalizing on the vast opportunities present in African markets. Notably, some of TotalEnergies most significant natural gas projects in Africa include the $20 billion Mozambique Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) project; the $4 billion Nigeria LNG Train 7 project; and the $12 billion integrated LNG project in Soyo, Angola. By emphasizing the value of these projects, and initiating a discussion on the role of natural gas in Africa, Breuillac will drive the discussion on the role of natural gas.

“Breuillac’s participation at AEW 2021 in Cape Town emphasizes that oil and gas continue to have a significant role to play in Africa’s energy future. We are proud to host representatives from one of the world’s supermajors, and are excited for the valuable input and dialogue that Breuillac will present at AEW 2021. The African Energy Chamber (AEC) is a strong advocate for both oil and natural gas, and by providing a platform whereby a discussion on the integration, rather than elimination, of oil and gas can be presented, AEW 2021 aims to drive investment and associated economic growth across Africa,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

Despite being a strong advocate for oil and gas, TotalEnergies has placed sustainable performance, environmental safeguarding, and Corporate Social Responsibility at the heart of its operations. With an ambition to become a world leader in the energy transition, and the uptake of renewable energy developments comprising a significant part of the company’s portfolio, TotalEnergies intends to manage its operations with the aim of working in a sustainable, active and positive manner in all host countries. By incorporating clean energy into its portfolio, and redirecting a focus on renewable energy opportunities in Africa, TotalEnergies aims to address the two-fold challenge prevalent in Africa today: satisfying the energy needs of an ever-growing world population while reducing global warming.

In realizing the company’s ambitious target of reaching carbon neutrality by 2050, TotalEnergies has executed a series of initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at its operations while ensuring development and associated economic benefits in host countries are not at risk. By improving energy efficiency, eliminating routine flaring, electrifying its processes and reducing methane emissions, TotalEnergies is not abandoning oil and gas for renewables, but is focusing on an integrated approach to energy.

By promoting the utilization of oil – ensuring operations are environmentally friendly and efficient – as well as the role of natural gas in providing a cleaner and more reliable energy source in the long-term, TotalEnergies emphasizes an adapted energy transition vital for Africa’s economic growth. Breuillac’s participation at AEW 2021 will only further promote Africa’s energy transition by emphasizing the role that oil and gas continues to play in Africa’s energy future.

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, visit www.aew2021.com or energychamber.org and/or email Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration-related inquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com  

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For speaker-related inquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com

*African Energy Week

Petroleum Commission CEO Egbert Faibille will drive a strong narrative on the value of market-driven policies and progressive regulation in attracting investment, increasing private sector participation, and accelerating economic growth. 

Egbert Faibille, CEO of the Petroleum Commission of Ghana, has confirmed his attendance and participation at African Energy Week (AEW) 2021, taking place in Cape Town on the 9^th-12^th of November. Confirmed to deliver a keynote address at the event, Faibille will attend AEW 2021 with a delegation of industry leaders and executives from Ghana, including Hon. Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempher and representatives from the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC). Representing one of Africa’s most promising natural gas sectors, and the agency responsible for Ghana’s upstream oil and gas sector, Faibille will drive a discussion on Africa’s gas miracle, pushing a strong narrative on the role of effective regulation and upstream oil and gas activities in driving continent wide energy sector and economic growth. 

As CEO of the Petroleum Commission, the Ghanaian state agency responsible for the regulation, management and coordination of all upstream oil and gas activities, Faibille plays a fundamental role in expanding the country’s oil and gas industry. Despite having only been established in 2011, in response to the discovery of significant commercial hydrocarbon deposits, the Petroleum Commission has accelerated energy sector growth, and positioned the country as an attractive investment destination through productive, industry focused regulation. Under the auspices of the Minister of Energy, and built against a backdrop of reformed market-driven policies, the Commission has positioned Ghana as a highly competitive destination for upstream investment, leading to the rapid increase in oil and gas exploration and development. 

Notably, one of the Commissions primary achievements has been the creation and implementation of one of the most transparent, modern, and industry-focused regulatory frameworks in Africa, leading to an influx of private sector participation and international investment. Having restructured its energy sector from the ground up, enforcing legislature that prioritizes women inclusivity, local content, and the increasing ease of doing business for all stakeholders, Ghana has positioned itself as the go-to market for investment. What’s more, the Commission has created an impressive benchmark for other African nations seeking investment and the increase in domestic exploration and production. Ghana is a prime example of how regulation can drive energy sector success and AEW 2021 aims to emphasize this. 

Accordingly, both the Ministry and the Commission have kick-started Ghana’s energy sector, driving new exploration and associated oil and natural gas developments. Some of the most noteworthy oil and gas achievements in the country include the billion-dollar discovery made by local company Springfield E&P Ltd. in the West Cape Three Points Block 2 area; the 150,000 barrels per day Jubilee oil field; the 3.4 million-ton Tema Liquified Natural Gas terminal; the 1,000MW Sankofa gas-to-power project; and the West African Gas Pipeline project. By ensuring an investor friendly business climate, Ghana now boasts the participation of some of the world’s most significant oil majors. Notable actors include Aker Energy, Camal Energy, Sahara Group, and Swiss African Petroleum with major oil and gas operators including Tullow, Kosmos Energy, Eni, ExxonMobil, Anadarko Petroleum Corporation, Hess Ghana Limited, Springfield E&P, and GNPC. By focusing on creating an enabling environment for investors, the Commission has driven progress in the sector. 

“Ghana represents one of Africa’s most successful new markets with world-class projects establishing the country as a regional oil, gas, and power hub. The Commission has done an exceptional job in establishing an enabling environment, pushing through market-driven policies and progressive legislature that has accelerated growth and interest in the oil and gas sector. By participating at AEW 2021 in Cape Town, Ghana will showcase the value and role of regulation, driving a strong narrative that emphasizes reform and transformation. We look forward to hearing Faibille’s insights and aim to further promote Ghana’s energy sector at AEW 2021,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. 

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, visit www.aew2021.com or energychamber.org and/or email Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org  

For registration-related inquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com    

For sales-related inquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com   

For media-related inquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com   

For speaker-related inquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com

*African Energy Chamber

Leading a delegation of American businesses, independent producers, and financiers to African Energy Week in Cape Town, Ryan Zinke will drive inter-continental partnerships and investment into emerging African markets. 

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) is proud to announce that Ryan Zinke, former U.S. Secretary of Interior under former-President Donald Trump, has confirmed his attendance and participation at African Energy Week (AEW) 2021, taking place in Cape Town on the 9^th-12^th of November 2021. Zinke will lead a delegation of American businesses, independent producers, and financiers to Cape Town, capitalizing on the expanding prospects present in emerging African markets, and introducing a wide network of stakeholders to African natural resource opportunities.  

In his previous position, Zinke was responsible for all oil and gas licenses in the U.S., and was committed to natural resource expansion through the opening up of federal lands for oil, natural gas and mineral exploration and extraction. Zinke has maintained a strong position for the increased exploitation of fossil fuels. As he announced in the Interior Department’s 2018-2022 strategic plan, “our mandate is multiple-use of public lands, and multiple-use also includes the development of natural resources as we seek to leverage American energy for American strength.” A strong advocate for using oil and gas development as a catalyst for wider economic growth, Zinke will drive a discussion on how Africa can fully utilize its significant resource base – driven by productive U.S.-Africa partnerships – to initiate long-term socio-economic growth. 

Meanwhile, Zinke continues to drive a discussion on the role of natural gas as a cleaner-burning fossil fuel. Unopposed to fossil fuel extraction, and yet acknowledging the carbon consequences, Zinke is advocating for the increased development of natural gas, explicating the value of the resource in addressing rising energy demand worldwide. In line with AEW 2021’s agenda regarding the role of natural gas in the energy transition, Zinke is expected to initiate a constructive dialogue on natural gas management, monetization and development, whilst introducing American financiers to African projects. 

“Secretary Ryan Zinke coming to Cape Town is HUGE. He played an important role alongside President Donald J. Trump, in ensuring that the US becomes the world’s largest producer of Oil and natural gas. He cut a lot of red tape and reduce bureaucracy, created an enabling environment for American businesses to thrive in the energy sector. African leaders, businesses and our energy industry will have a good opportunity in Cape Town to interact firsthand with Secretary Zinke and benefit from his network that could help us in our goal to Make Energy Poverty History.” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, the AEC.  

Under the Trump administration, Zinke was a strong advocate for the ‘American first energy plan’ – an economic, strategic, and foreign policy goal that aimed to exploit the American landscape and establish American energy dominance. In addition to developing U.S. domestic resources, Zinke is committed to promoting energy sector collaboration and continues to be focused on establishing long-term partnerships with various oil and gas stakeholders. Notably, while in office, Zinke emphasized the value of forming partnerships between the Interior department and Oil Corporations, promoting growth through integration. Accordingly, Zinke has also recognized the value of international partnerships, and leading a delegation of stakeholders from the U.S. to Cape Town, is eager to establish investment deals and sustainable partnership agreements between U.S. companies and African markets. 

“American businesses, independent producers, and financiers are coming to African Energy Week in Cape Town, and we thank Secretary Zinke for his resolve in supporting Africa fight energy poverty and for being a voice for why energy matters to Africa. Africa stands to significantly benefit from U.S. partnerships, investment and Secretary Zinke’s delegation will drive deal-making, investment, and collaboration across Africa. By promoting the role of oil and gas in not only Africa’s energy future, but the entire globes, Zinke recognizes these resources value in fast tracking economic growth and driving industrialization worldwide,” Concluded Ayuk.

To take advantage of the valuable networking opportunities present at AEW 2021 in Cape Town, and to directly engage with U.S. energy companies, stakeholders, and financiers, register now at www.aew2021.com or contact amina.williams@energychamber.org. 

For registration-related inquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com   

For sales-related inquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com  

For media-related inquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com  

For speaker-related inquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com

Through a series of high-level meetings with industry leaders and international oil companies, Leoncio Amada NZE, African Energy Chamber Executive President for the CEMAC region, is driving a strong narrative on the role of regulation and an enabling environment in accelerating investment in Equatorial Guinea. 

By promoting African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 in Cape Town South Africa as the ideal platform whereby global and African stakeholders can network and collaborate, he is driving an Africa-focused narrative and pushing for a multi-stakeholder approach to attracting investment and establishing a competitive African market both Equatorial Guinea and the wider CEMAC region. 

The CEMAC region – which comprises Cameroon, Chad, the Central African Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and the Republic of Congo – is richly endowed with multiple natural resources, in which a recent oil and gas boom has the potential to accelerate economic growth and alleviate energy poverty throughout the region. Despite comprising one of the richest areas on the continent – with existing production levels at 700,000 barrels of oil per day and 5 million tons of LNG per annum ­– the CEMAC region also remains one of the most challenging business environments in Africa, with red tape and burdensome regulations creating significant barriers to entry. 

Gas from the YoYo/Yolanda field (which straddles the maritime border between Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon, operated by Noble Energy on both sides) may also be eventually processed at Punta Europa. In mid-2017, Noble Energy signed an agreement with both governments to develop the fields jointly. Resources for YoYo are estimated at 47 Bcfg and 18 MMbc, whilst resources for Yolanda have been estimated at 27 Bcfg. The delays in approving these deals are not helpful to the citizens of both countries and we urge all players to fast track the process. Whilst the Etinde fields are just 35km away from Punta Europa, we are concerned about the delays in developing this project as well. We hope to see an FID soon and free from regional politics.

The region has been blessed by many companies that exploring for energy like Parenco, New Age, Bowleven, Exxon Mobil, lukoil ,Tower Resources, Chevron, Vaalco, Marathon, Atlas Petroleum, Glencore, Total Energies, BW Offshore, Assala Energy, Royal Gate Energy ENI, Kosmos Energy, Panoro Energy etc. They are creating so many beautiful jobs and must be encouraged. The issues of energy transition are real and we welcome an honest dialogue that starts with making energy poverty history. 

While the concerted effort amongst all of the world’s nations is fundamental to curb the effects of climate change, it is paramount to have a clear understanding of what efforts will be most decisive, and which regions of the world are in a better position and have the biggest responsibility to tackle these issues. Demonizing energy companies is not a constructive way forward, and ignoring the structural role that carbon-based fuels have in today’s society distorts the public debate. Bringing energy companies, governments and civil society groups together to find functional solutions will achieve much more. We in Africa must not be dragged into the western hatred of oil companies. You can’t love jobs and hate those who create jobs. We must support our energy companies to ensure jobs and development for our people. 

As Dr Martin Luther King Jr., stated in his letter from Birmingham Jail “We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” We are tied together with these energy companies, and we must never apologize for supporting them and the so many African workers that work in the energy sectors. Africans are the biggest beneficiaries of their investment and their work.

One of the primary challenges hindering investment in the CEMAC region concerns excessive regulations such as the Bank of Central African States’ (BEAC) newly established foreign exchange (forex) policies. By increasing operational costs and reducing the ease of doing business across the region, such regulations reduce the appeal for foreign investors, rendering the region uncompetitive. With the focus on an effective COVID-19 recovery and accelerated energy sector growth requiring significant amounts of foreign capital, disrupting regulations such as the BEAC’s could significantly hamper any progress made by the region in recent years. 

“We at the AEC, continue to believe that the BEAC’s new forex regulations pose a significant threat to domestic economic growth, directly restricting local business participation and disrupting local content development. The work Mr Jude Kearney and Leoncio Amada Nze are doing leading our AEC taskforce is critical” Stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber

“Through adjusted foreign exchange rules, increased tax policies, and restricted capital flow, local businesses will be unable to compete or establish partnerships with international companies, resulting in job losses and associated energy poverty. If the idea of BEAC is to hurt investors, they are not only doing that, but they are also hurting the local companies as well and the bureaucrats of BEAC should not be picking winners and losers. This is against the pro-growth and market driven policies that will ensure economic growth than begging for foreign aid, and we will make it a topic at African Energy Week in Cape Town”. Concluded Ayuk

In response to these challenges, the AEC is focused on a multi-stakeholder approach in eliminating red tape, burdensome regulations, and barriers to investment across Africa. Through meetings with BEAC representatives, Leoncio Amada NZE is advocating for an enabling environment, market-driven policies, and increased local participation in the regions energy sector, promoting AEW 2021 in Cape Town as the best platform to drive this trend. By uniting global and African energy stakeholders and financiers in one comprehensive event program, AEW 2021 will be the best place to discuss how the CEMAC region can create a more inclusive energy sector, attract further investment, and facilitate critical intra-African trade. 

In driving this narrative, Leoncio Amada NZE has conducted productive meetings with industry leaders in Equatorial Guinea, initiating a valuable dialogue on the role of an enabling environment. Notably, meetings with H.E. Bindang Ndong Okiri, Secretary of State of Planning of the Ministry of Economy and Finance, emphasized how the adoption of fiscal policies that attract Foreign Direct Investment can create a competitive energy sector. Additionally, a meeting with representatives from Marathon Oil – an exploration and production company that has been at the core of Equatorial Guinea’s economic transformation – generated an insightful discussion on sustainable oil and gas operations. By emphasizing the need for regulatory reform, in which ease of doing business and investor-friendly policies are a focus, both Leoncio Amada NZE and the AEC are focused on driving investment in Africa. 

What’s more, in a bid to promote AEW 2021 and invite international participation at Africa’s premier energy event, Leoncio Amada NZE met with Jesus Alfonso Osa and representatives from ExxonMobil’s Malabo team to discuss how the oil and gas industry can drive an economic transformation in the CEMAC region. With a firm presence and active participation in Equatorial Guinea for almost three decades, ExxonMobil has been a major contributor to energy sector and GDP growth. In addition to expanding their own operations in the country, ExxonMobil, through the implementation of local content programs, has transformed the local business sector, driving job creation and economic growth. Through events such as AEW 2021 in Cape Town, ExxonMobil can enhance partnerships and promote growth across the CEMAC region.

Finally, Leoncio Amada NZE’s meeting with Mr. Juan Antonio Ndong Ondo, CEO of Sonagas GE – the national gas company of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea –, further advanced the discussion on the role of the local business sector and National Oil Companies (NOC) in driving energy sector growth and success. By focusing on regional expansion as well as the value of local content and business-friendly regulation, both Leoncio Amada NZE and Mr. Ndong Ondo emphasized investment and intra-African partnerships, both of which will be facilitated at AEW 2021 in Cape Town. 

Equatorial Guinea and the wider CEMAC region have significant potential, and AEW 2021 serves to enable the realization of economic growth, increased investment, and local business enhancement by emphasizing the risks pertaining to the BEAC forex regulations. Africa needs energy as well as productive partnerships to accelerate economic growth, all of which are driven by market-driven policies, productive regulation, and multi-stakeholder integration. AEW 2021 presents the most suitable platform to network with stakeholders, drive investment, and promote sector-advancing regulation. 

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, visit www.aew2021.com or energychamber.org and/or email Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org  

For registration-related inquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com     

For sales-related inquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com   

For media-related inquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com   

For speaker-related inquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com

*Source African Energy Chamber

By NJ Ayuk*

Last spring, the Maersk Voyager, an ultra-deepwater drillship under contract by French supermajor Total, drilled a wildcat well in the deepest water ever – 3,628 meters (11,903 feet) in Block 48, a massive area with potentially huge oil reserves in the Congo basin offshore Angola.  

The record-setting achievement wasn’t a success just for Maersk and Total. It also represented a victory for Angola and state oil company Sonangol in their search for new oil, part of a campaign to reverse a recent trend of production declines. The high-impact concept well was long anticipated, and it didn’t take long for other global players, including Qatar Petroleum (QP), to buy in. As part of its bid to expand its exploration portfolio, QP acquired a 30% stake in Block 48 in August, its first venture into Angola’s promising deepwater acreage.

If Angola were the only southwestern African nation making oil and gas news, that would still be a pretty good story. But the fact is, Africa’s southwestern coast is home to perhaps the most globally anticipated wildcats of 2020 and 2021 – exploration that continues despite the added challenges of COVID-19, which has constrained operating and capital budgets. As the African Energy Chamber noted in our 2021 outlook, if successful, prospects in Angola, Namibia, and South Africa, could “open new basins for development and trigger big investments towards the latter half of the 2020s.”

That’s headline-making, indeed.

Combined with Block 48, the Venus-1 prospect in Namibia, and South Africa’s Brulpadda and Luiperd, the region holds world-class resource potential. The key is translating that potential into real benefits for all Africans.

Production is Building Momentum in Angola
For nearly 70 years, oil has been a mainstay of the Angolan economy, contributing about 50% of the nation’s gross domestic product and around 89% of exports. The country holds the continent’s second-largest proven oil reserves and is behind only Nigeria in terms of production. (Angola also has Africa’s fourth-largest proven natural gas reserves, although historically it hasn’t produced much commercially.)

In recent years, though, the drop in oil prices scared off foreign investment, putting pressure on Angola’s well-established oil and gas industry as well as its oil-based economy. Despite its vast resources, not only was production on the downturn, there had not been a major new discovery since 2011. Without fresh finds, consultants Rystad Energy, S.A. said, volumes could drop below 1 million barrels per day by 2025, far below capacity and less than half the 2008’s daily output.

That forecast was more than enough to spur Angolan President João Lourenço into action.

Following his election in 2017, he promised Angola an “economic miracle” and immediately began incentivizing participation in the nation’s oil and gas industry as part of his turnaround plan.

Lourenço’s lures, including better contract terms that would make foreign investment more profitable, paid off. With reforms such as tax relief and a standalone oil industry regulator in place, Total – which has been operating in Angola for six decades – moved quickly in 2018 to take over Block 48 and was awarded Block 29 in the Namibe basin earlier this year; Italy’s Eni was awarded neighboring Block 28 about the same time. Angola also awarded several offshore blocks to Norway’s Equinor and BP. (There are approximately 50 blocks in the Namibe basin, but whether they will all be put into play remains to be seen.)  Eni and its partners also began production at Agogo-1, pumping a modest 10,000 barrels per day. While that may sound small, it contributes to a much larger sum: Taken together, Rystad said, production from new Angolan projects – that is, those begun just in the last five years – should yield 549,000 barrels per day by 2025.

Fiscal Regime Sets Stage for Success in Namibia
If early seismic data is to be believed, compared to Angola there is equal, if not even more, promise in new discoveries offshore Namibia. Altogether, more than 11 billion barrels in oil reserves have been found off the Namibian coast, and scientists compare Namibia’s geology favorably to the pre-salt fields offshore Brazil, which hold 16 billion barrels of crude reserves. Yet Namibia’s basins are considered underexplored, meaning there’s ample opportunity for foreign and domestic investment. The possibility of high-impact discoveries has attracted the likes of Total, ExxonMobil, QP, and Kosmos Energy, which has had significant wildcat success in Africa over the past dozen years.

Currently, all eyes are on Total’s possibly play-opening Venus 1- prospect, which may turn out to be the largest discovery in Africa in a decade. An ultra-deepwater well in the Orange Basin, which straddles the border with South Africa, Venus-1 is thought to have at least 2 billion barrels of oil in place. If Venus-1 is successful, it’s like to attract even more attention to the area. Fortunately, the Namibian government’s oil-friendly policies make it easy for foreign companies to do business there. The fiscal regime is positive, and the state-owned oil company, the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (NAMCOR), is a cooperative partner. It also helps that Namibia is politically stable and has some of the best-developed infrastructure on the continent, including a modern electricity distribution grid.

We’re Seeing Growing Excitement in South Africa
Like its neighbors to the west, South Africa has been the site of considerable excitement over frontier discoveries, including Total’s Brulpadda, which opened up the Outeniqua basin in 2019. Brulpadda is considered a world-class oil and gas play that holds as much as 1 billion barrels of oil equivalent of gas and condensate light oil.

Brulpadda is considered an antidote to the cascade of ailments South Africa – like many countries with petroleum resources – has experienced in recent years: a drop in oil and gas exploration following a decline in commodity prices. It is likely that PetroSA’s gas-to-liquids (GTL) plant will provide a ready domestic market for Brulpadda, as will the nearby petrochemical and industrial facilities. It is also possible the discovery will help South Africa accelerate the use of gas for electricity.

Total continues to explore other parts of the Outeniqua basin and just last month discovered gas condensate on the Luiperd prospect, where it is a joint venture partner with QP, CNR International, and an African consortium called Main Street. In an announcement, Total said that the Luiperd well was drilled to a total depth of about 3,400 meters and encountered 73 meters of net gas condensate pay, making it even larger than the main reservoir at Brulpadda. Total and its partners have decided to commercialize the Luiperd gas rather than drill another exploration well in the program.

Africans Must Realize the Benefits
There’s no question that these discoveries have made southwestern Africa an exploration hot spot.

Neither is there any doubt that the governments of Angola, Namibia, and South Africa have facilitated and even accelerated the discovery and development processes by making it easy to do business there. (In the case of South Africa, its fiscal terms for oil and gas companies are described as “very generous.”)

What remains uncertain is to what degree each country will continue working to ensure its natural resources, whether newfound or long-established, are used to lift people out of poverty. True, African involvement in joint ventures leads us to assume that the best interests of every citizen are being considered.

But this is a time for the oil and gas companies that are involved in these mega-opportunities to redouble their efforts to support local communities and people. These companies are our guests in Africa, but the price of a welcome to our resource riches can’t be merely contractual, a handshake between governments and businessmen. The more they profit, the more Africans should benefit.

This idea is at the heart of the concept of Shared Value, which has been defined as “a framework for creating economic value while simultaneously addressing societal needs and challenges,” and as the “practice of profit in a way that creates value for society.” Shared Value doesn’t suggest that businesses should act as philanthropies or charities, giving handouts to those who exhibit need. It goes beyond the idea of corporate social responsibility, which is often based on volunteerism and one-off donations. Perhaps most important, Shared Value recognizes that companies can only stay in business if they are making money. As consultants FSG described it, the value companies and the community are sharing is “worth,” that is, economic value on a financial sheet and societal value in the form of progress on social issues.

Shared Value recognizes that companies have a responsibility to take on social challenges through the business itself. It is in their economic interest to do this. In Africa, one way they can do that is by supporting capacity-building. As the Shared Value Initiative noted, despite the substantial economic output of the oil and gas industry, it has “not always translated into societal improvements in host countries and communities… companies are losing billions of dollars a year to community strife,” much of it due to underemployment.

As more companies are attracted to southwestern Africa and these exciting new developments, we can only hope that they will recognize that where opportunity exists for them it should exist for everyone. And they have the power to make it so. 

That would be really big news.

* NJ Ayuk is Executive Chairman, African Energy Chamber

A speaker commitment by Hon. Dale Nally will further African Energy Week’s agenda regarding the role of natural gas in the global energy transition. 

African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 is proud to host Hon. Dale Nally, Associate Minister of Natural Gas and Electricity, Alberta, Canada, as a speaker at the four-day interactive conference and networking event on the 9^th-12^th of November 2021. Representing Canada at Africa’s premier energy event, Hon. Dale Nally will drive a discussion on natural gas and Africa’s energy transition and the value of gas-to-power solutions, emphasizing Africa-Canada relations and the role that Canadian service providers have to play in Africa. 

Having served as the Associate Minister of Natural Gas and Electricity in Alberta since 2019, Hon. Nally has placed natural gas and associated gas-to-power solutions as top of the agenda in Canada’s energy development. Under his leadership, the government has established a more business friendly regulatory environment for natural gas companies in Alberta, fast tracking growth across the sector. Prioritizing the global climate agenda and the utilization of cleaner sources of fuel, Hon. Nally promotes natural gas as the ideal energy solution, not only for Canada, but for the global economy. Accordingly, Hon. Nally will bring a unique set of skills and decades of experience to AEW 2021 in Cape Town, promoting the role of natural gas in facilitating a transition to cleaner fuel sources, while emphasizing the role that energy plays in accelerating socio-economic growth. 

Meanwhile, Hon. Nally is a strong advocate for gas-to-power solutions, maintaining that natural gas offers the best environmental energy alternative compared to traditional coal-fired power plants. As many African countries turn to natural gas as a power generation solution – driven by the continent’s power challenges whereby 620 million lack access to electricity – Hon. Nally offers fundamental solutions and technological models for the transition from coal to natural gas, and will promote such at AEW 2021. Additionally, Hon. Nally will promote the utilization of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) as a cleaner source of fuel. By showcasing Canadian technology and its integration with LNG, Hon. Nally will introduce methods of making clean energy even cleaner, introducing valuable insights into the role of both small- and large-scale LNG in Africa. As Alberta begins to expand LNG development and utilization, Hon. Nally will share strategies for the adoption of LNG in Africa at AEW 2021, promoting development across the continent.   

“AEW 2021 is committed to making energy poverty history by 2030. We are honored to host Hon. Nally as a speaker and eager to hear his viewpoints on the role of natural gas and gas-to-power in accelerating electricity access and alleviating energy poverty. As Africa progresses into an energy transition, AEW 2021 aims to promote the role of natural gas in the transition and Hon. Nally’s participation will only further this agenda, as well as promote the role of Canadian service providers in African markets,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, the AEC. 

“African states and the Oil and Gas industry can learn a lot from the Province of Alberta, Canada. Alberta, under Hon. Jason Kenney, Hon. Sonya Savage, and Hon. Nally has shown real courage in defending the role the oil and Natural gas industry plays in the economy of Alberta, Canada. They have promoted free market and pro-growth policies and Africans can learn a lot of from their bold policies for the Oil and Gas Industry. Hon Nally and his team have put in place policies that encouraged new drilling and provide relief to mature oil fields. It has improved investor confidence and created jobs for Albertans. Africans will embrace Alberta and its key institutions like the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology that has trained so many Africans working offshore and onshore. These relationships need to be strengthened and prepared for a strong Canada-Africa energy investment,” concluded Ayuk

Canada already has a foothold in Africa with companies such as Reconnaissance Energy Africa (Recon) working with both the Namibian and Botswana governments to drive exploration and production within the Kavango Basin. Recently, in a three-stage drilling campaign in Namibia, Recon has indicated the potential of billions of barrels of oil, further cementing Canada’s footprint in African markets. With the third stage about to be implemented, the world eagerly awaits the results.  Additionally, Canadian-based Africa Energy Corp., an oil and gas company with exploration assets offshore South Africa and Namibia, is actively exploring offshore prospects and advancing upstream activities in Southern Africa. With working interests in Block 2B and Blocks 11B/12B in South Africa, and PEL 37 in Namibia, Africa Energy Corp. is working with major oil companies Total Energies and Tullow to explore African oil and gas opportunities. By participating at AEW 2021, Hon. Nally will further promote the role that Canadian service providers such as Recon and Africa Energy Corp. have to play in emerging African markets. Canada is set to be a key driver of African upstream growth, with Hon. Nally’s participation only enhances this trend. 

Hon. Nally brings with him decades of private sector experience and will, therefore, promote the increased penetration of Canadian service providers and the private sector in African markets, initiating sectoral and economic growth continent wide. By emphasizing the role that companies such as Recon and Africa Energy Corp. play in Africa, as well as the opportunities available for such companies, Hon. Nally is focused on expanding Africa-Canada relations in a bid to reaffirm partnerships, introduce Canadian companies to African opportunities, and drive energy sector development in both Alberta and Africa as a whole. 

Both Hon. Nally and the African Energy Chamber believe in the advantages of natural gas in spurring electricity access, industrialization, and economic growth. Hon. Nally’s position on natural gas is clear: that it is the best resource to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions and end energy poverty. By promoting this message at AEW 2021 in Cape Town, Hon. Nally aligns with the African Energy Chamber’s agenda to make energy poverty history by 2030. 

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, visit www.aew2021.com or energychamber.org and/or email Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org  

For registration-related inquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com    

For sales-related inquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com   

For media-related inquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com   

For speaker-related inquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com

*African Energy Chamber

Recent speaker confirmations by Shoreline Energy International’s Kola Karim, Vitol Senior Investment’s Steven Brann, and Springfield Group’s Kevin Okyere to the upcoming African Energy Week 2021 in Cape Town aim to advance discussions on the role of gas in Africa’s energy future and the value of gas-to-power solutions.

Three new VIP speakers have just been confirmed for the highly anticipated African Energy Week (AEW) 2021, taking place in Cape Town on the 9^th-12^th of November. Confirmations by Kola Karim, Managing Director and CEO of Shoreline Energy International, Steven Brann, Senior Investment Manager at Vitol, and Kevin Okyere, CEO of Springfield Group further position the conference as Africa’s premier energy event. Serving as key players in the African energy industry and in line with AEW 2021’s agenda to promote the role of Africa in the global energy transition, Karim, Brann and Okyere will drive a productive discussion on the challenges and opportunities present in Africa’s power sector, as well as the role of natural gas and availability offinancing in Africa’s energy transition.  

Considered one of Nigeria’s most successful entrepreneurs, Karim is both the founder and CEO of Shoreline Energy International, an indigenous power solutions company focused on power generation and power equipment manufacturing activities, operating throughout sub-Saharan Africa. With extensive experience in construction, commodity trading, oil and gas, engineering and the power sector, Karim is well-versed on Africa’s energy industry and committed to driving investment and growth across Africa’s power and energy sectors. With a focus on developing reliable and sustainable power supplies and creating integrated energy solutions throughout sub-Saharan Africa, Karim’s participation will foster dialogue on Africa’s power sector, addressing key concerns and offering feasible solutions to expanding regional power networks and driving industrialization.

Meanwhile, as Senior Investment Manager at Vitol – an energy and commodities trader involved in exploration and production, refining, terminals and trading – Brann is committed to driving investment in Africa’s impressive oil and gas sector. With a focus on gas and power solutions, Brann will advance discussions on natural gas monetization, challenges associated with the financing of Africa’s large-scale LNG projects and the value of gas as a transitionary resource. Driving a strong narrative that access to power is key to Africa’s industrialization, Brann will promote gas-to-power as a viable alternative power generation solution that can boost socioeconomic growth continent-wide.   

In line with AEW 2021’s recognition of the growing role of natural gas, participation from Okyere from Springfield Group – the Ghanaian exploration and production firm responsible for a series of historic discoveries offshore Ghana – will contribute to discussions on natural gas’ place in Africa’s energy future. With a focus on exploring cleaner sources of energy, Springfield is committed to developing its natural gas fields and accelerating gas-to-power developments to fast-track Africa’s industrial revolution and economic transformation. Accordingly, Okyere’s participation proves particularly valuable, as he will be able to provide an Africa-focused narrative on natural gas monetization and utilization, backed by experience and success in Ghana’s sector.

“We are proud to announce that Kola Karim, Steven Brann and Kevin Okyere have all committed to AEW 2021. These industry leaders will contribute to AEW 2021’s natural gas agenda, further promoting the value and benefits of the resource not only in Africa’s energy transition, but in spurring economic growth, promoting energy sector development and alleviating energy poverty by 2030,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.

Karim, Brann and Okyere are all committed to the same objective: transforming Africa’s energy sector to drive industrialization and economic growth. AEW 2021 unites multiple stakeholders from varying industries, providing a valuable platform for discussion regarding Africa’s energy future, against a backdrop of integration and engagement. AEW 2021 believes in unity, partnerships and cooperation as the key to African energy success and is proud to host a variety of VIP speakers under one forward-thinking agenda.

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, visit www.aew2021.com or energychamber.org and/or email Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration-related inquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com  

For sales-related inquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com 

For media-related inquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com

For speaker-related inquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com

*African Energy Chamber

During a working visit to Zimbabwe, African Energy Chamber Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk met with H.E. President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa to discuss extensive investment opportunities across the country’s renewable, natural gas and mining sectors.  

Committed to driving attendance at the upcoming African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 interactive conference and exhibition taking place in Cape Town (November 9-12) – as well as promoting pan-African investment opportunities – NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, conducted a working visit to Zimbabwe to open a dialogue on the country’s promising energy sector. Meeting with H.E. Emmerson Dumbudzo Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe, and presenting his recently published book, ‘Billions at Play: The Future of African Energy and Doing Deals,’ Ayuk emphasized how AEW 2021 will position Zimbabwe as a top investment priority in November, driving development across multiple energy sectors.  

Ayuk’s meeting with the H.E. President Mnangagwa focused on Zimbabwe’s energy potential and delineated strategies by which this potential can be achieved. Across the country, power generation and transmission remain some of the most critical investment opportunities, as existing coal-fired power stations require upgrades and untapped natural gas and renewable resources lack exploitation. Therefore, Zimbabwe is seeking new investors and projects to increase installed power generation capacity, diversify its domestic energy sector and boost country-wide energy security, in which AEW 2021 will be a key driver.

With approximately 30 billion tons of coal in 21 known deposits that could have a lifespan of over 100 years, Zimbabwe’s coal reserves have the potential to address energy supply challenges and meet demand across the region. Currently, the country’s largest thermal power station, Hwange Thermal Power Plant, has a capacity of 750MW, supplying critical electricity to the population. However, with ageing power plants requiring upgrades and the country opting to reduce its reliance on coal, alternative power generation solutions are being considered and significant investment opportunities have emerged. 

Ayuk’s visit initiated a dialogue on one of the country’s most promising sectors: renewable energy. Zimbabwe is home to impressive hydropower potential – estimated at 18,500 GWh per year, of which 17,500 GWh is technically feasible – and aims to drive further investment and associated development to establish domestic energy security and independence. To date, only 19% of the country’s hydropower potential has been exploited, with most of Zimbabwe’s electricity supply produced at the 750MW Kariba Dam Hydroelectric Power Station. With further potential from the Zambezi River, as well as several small-scale prospects across the country, the resource could potentially position the country as a regional renewable competitor. 

Furthermore, Zimbabwe holds significant exploration opportunities for stakeholders. Despite the lack of proven oil and natural gas reserves – and the continued dependence on crude imports to supply the nation – Zimbabwe is redirecting its focus on exploration, specifically of natural gas. Having experienced critical electricity shortages for decades, Zimbabwe is seeking alternative power generation solutions, in which natural gas may be a viable alternative. The Southern African nation is pursuing partnerships and investment deals with international stakeholders, focusing on accelerating exploration and driving energy sector diversification and growth. 

Meanwhile, according to the International Trade Administration, Zimbabwe’s lithium deposits are the largest in Africa. With the rapid increase in global demand given the mineral’s importance to the energy-battery industry, the country has the potential to become a major exporter, while contributing to the global energy transition. To position itself as a clean energy player, Zimbabwe requires significant investment in mining, with additional opportunities available in mining supplies, transportation infrastructure and materials. In a bid to attract further investment, the government has proposed regulatory changes to the Mines and Minerals Act, making its more progressive and investor friendly. With a renewed interest in increasing domestic production, the government is seeking significant capital investments, in which AEW 2021 will play a major role. 

“AEW 2021 is committed to promoting Zimbabwe. With established sectors requiring upgrades, and emerging sectors seeking international participation and investment, the country offers significant potential for both regional and international players. By showcasing these opportunities at Africa’s premier energy event, AEW 2021 aims to drive investment in Zimbabwe, initiating energy sector expansion and diversification,” stated Ayuk. 

H.E. President Mnangagwa has declared a commitment to developing a robust energy sector in Zimbabwe to meet rising power demand brought about by an increasingly vibrant, productive and resilient economy and people. With significant potential across multiple segments of its energy economy, Zimbabwe hopes to attract both regional and international investment, utilizing its energy sector as a catalyst for wider socioeconomic growth. AEW 2021 aims to further this agenda, placing Zimbabwe as a top priority and showcasing all that the country has to offer. 

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, visit www.aew2021.com or energychamber.org and/or email Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org  

For registration-related inquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com    

For sales-related inquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com  

For media-related inquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com  

For speaker-related inquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com

Official endorsement by the country’s leading tourism destination reaffirms the value of events in a post-COVID-19 context.

• The African Energy Chamber is proud to announce that the V&A Waterfront, the country’s leading tourism destination, as official host partner of the upcoming African Energy Week (AEW) 2021, taking place in Cape Town on the 9^th-12^th of November 2021.
• Representing the first and only in-person Africa-focused energy event taking place in Africa in 2021, AEW 2021 is expected to have significant impacts on Cape Town’s event industry, driving revenue and tourism in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Endorsement and support by the V&A Waterfront furthers AEW 2021’s agenda of ensuring Africa-focused energy events remain in Africa, ensuring African people and African industries fully benefit.

Cape Town, 20 July 2021 – The African Energy Chamber’s (AEC) flagship event, African Energy Week (AEW) 2021, takes place in Cape Town on the 9^th-12^th of November at the iconic V&A Waterfront. Representing Cape Town’s premier socio-cultural location, and one of Africa’s most visited tourism destinations annually, the Waterfront’s support is significant for AEW 2021, driving the narrative that Africa-focused energy events should remain in Africa. 

Situated in the oldest working harbor in South Africa, and with the magnificent Table Mountain as its backdrop, the Waterfront comprises more than 80 eateries, 12 hotels, 500 retail stores, five museums and 22 heritage sites. With direct linkages to Cape Town city center and a variety of attractions attracting an impressive amount of both regional and international tourists each year, the Waterfront’s integration of social, cultural, sports and entertainment in one location perfectly portrays the wonders that South Africa has to offer.

Notable attractions at the Waterfront include the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art, the largest museum of contemporary African art in the world located in the historical grain silo; Chavonnes Battery Museum and Battery Park, located on the site of a historic 18^th century Cape Town fort; and the Robben Island Jetty 1 museum, housing information about the history of Robben Island. Considered the heart of Cape Town’s history, the Waterfront is a premier destination for all history and cultural enthusiasts.

What’s more, the Waterfront boasts one of the busiest events industries in Cape Town with multiple conference and venue locations attracting tourists from the business, sports, entertainment, and educational sectors worldwide. The Waterfront not only provides a “beautiful setting, but its historic architecture and world-class facilities make it an ideal conferencing destination.”

With AEW 2021’s focus on interactive networking, and the move towards alternative event structures, the Waterfront comprises the ideal location for Africa’s premier energy event. By utilizing multiple venues across the Waterfront, AEW 2021 not only provides attendees with a revolutionary event format, but enables participants to visit some of Cape Town’s top tourist attractions. Additionally, the multi-platform approach of AEW 2021, enabled by the Waterfront’s diverse venue options, complies with COVID-19 social distancing and gathering restrictions, ensuring that the event accommodates a large audience while enforcing government regulations. Accordingly, both AEW 2021 and the Waterfront are emphasizing that Africa-focused events can and should be held in Africa in 2021.

“The return of major events such as African Energy Week 2021, bringing with them international visitors back to the Mother City, will be key to revitalizing our marketing efforts as the world reopens for business as we learn to live with the Covid-19 pandemic. We look forward to welcoming the delegates of African Energy Week and reintroducing them to the heritage, diversity and vibrant spirit of our neighborhood,” stated David Green, CEO, the V&A Waterfront.

“By utilizing the Waterfront as the location for AEW 2021, the AEC emphasizes the role of energy events in initiating community developments and impacts, as well as demonstrates that decisions regarding Africa’s energy sector should be made in Africa. AEW 2021 does not only seek to expand the African energy sector, but aims to contribute to tourism and event industry growth. Endorsement by the Waterfront only furthers this agenda, enabling increased socio-economic benefits in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic,” stated Katie Briant, Operations and Event Director for AEW 2021.

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, please visit www.aew2021.com or www.energychamber.org and/or reach out directly to Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com 

For sales-related enquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com

For media-related enquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com

For speaker opportunity-related enquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com

*African Energy Chamber

During a recent visit to Nigeria, AEC Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk met with industry leaders, national oil companies and private sector executives to discuss how the upcoming African Energy Week 2021 will promote Nigeria as the premier destination for investment in 2021 and beyond.

NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (AEC), recently conducted a working visit to Nigeria with a sole mandate to expand cooperation, reaffirm critical energy partnerships, and promote the country as a premier investment destination, backed by the recently passed Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) and the Decade of Gas initiative. By reiterating the value of the Cape Town-hosted African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 as a platform whereby Nigeria can facilitate impactful energy deals, market the country’s reformed energy sector, and attract both regional and international investor interest, both the AEC and AEW 2021 remain committed to driving investment and associated deals in Nigeria.   

Backed by the country’s recently passed PIB, the Decade of Gas initiative, and the prioritization of local content, Ayuk’s visit to Nigeria comprised meetings with industry leaders, including H.E. Chief Timipre Sylva, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, and officials from the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR); private sector executives; and national oil companies including representatives from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). As Nigeria promotes the fact that it is officially open for business, AEW 2021 serves as the ideal platform to market the country, uniting international investors with lucrative Nigerian opportunities.

Notably, the visit aimed to emphasize the role of Nigerian oil and gas developments in a bid to attract international investor interest to new and existing projects. Through meetings with marginal field producers, the NNPC and the DPR, Ayuk opened a discussion on the role of oil and gas in Africa’s energy transition, drawing attention to the value and competitiveness of African projects. By showcasing the country’s new and existing oil and gas projects – such as the $2.8 billion, 614km Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano pipeline and the $10 billion Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas Train 7 project – both Nigeria and AEW 2021 aim to drive oil and gas directed investment, expanding Nigeria’s sector and accelerating long-term socio-economic growth.

Meanwhile, with the country’s Decade of Gas initiative – a comprehensive strategy to enhance gas monetization and utilization through a number of large-scale projects – comprising top of the agenda in 2021, a meeting with H.E. Chief Timipre Sylva served to promote Nigeria’s gas industry, with the Minister declaring an ambition to enhance gas-directed investments, accelerating growth across the sector and the wider economy. Under the Decade of Gas initiative, Nigeria is committed to fully exploiting its natural gas reserves – which represent the largest in Africa estimated at 206.53 trillion cubic feet – and is, therefore, prioritizing gas-to-power projects and associated developments. H.E. Chief Sylva remains committed to energy investments and has confirmed that the upcoming AEW 2021 will serve as the ideal platform for deals to be made that will kickstart Nigeria’s Decade of Gas enabled by the passage of the PIB.

Ayuk’s meeting with the Minister additionally focused on the benefits initiated by the PIB, reiterating the role that this progressive legislature will play in spurring investment in Nigeria. The recently passed PIB will pave the way for an influx of international energy investments across the entire value chain in Nigeria, creating an enabling environment for international stakeholders, in which reduced taxes and royalties coupled with Hydrocarbon tax exemptions for deep offshore oil and gas production has positioned Nigeria as one of the most competitive investment destinations in Africa. Accordingly, the PIB has not only completely overhauled the country’s regulatory structure, but has significantly enhanced its attractiveness, serving as a catalyst for new investments that will drive growth in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. AEW 2021 will showcase Nigeria’s post-PIB opportunities in a bid to drive investment and deal-making.

“Nigeria is open for business. The passing of the PIB coupled with demonstrated political will has emphasized and reaffirmed the country’s enabling environment and we can expect an increase in both regional and international partnerships and investment. AEW 2021 will work hard to promote Nigeria as a top investment destination, with the Nigerian delegation offering valuable insight into new and existing project developments and opportunities. There are many deals to be made in Nigeria and AEW 2021 will be the place to make them,” stated Ayuk.

Additionally, meetings with Nigerian service companies led to a discussion on the role of local companies and the private sector in driving regional energy growth and Africa’s energy transition. By emphasizing the role that Nigerian companies can play in regional markets – including but not limited to Angola, Gabon, and the Republic of Congo – both Ayuk and the Minister promoted the value of Nigerian businesses in sharing valuable experience, showcasing successful projects, and consequently, driving growth across the entire region. Increasing Nigeria’s footprint in regional markets will not only initiate regional growth but will open up numerous investment opportunities for both Nigeria and the wider region.

With regards to Africa’s energy transition, Ayuk’s visit opened a dialogue on Nigeria’s pragmatic approach to an energy transition, emphasizing the value of a Nigerian-focused and adapted strategy to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Meetings with both the NNPC, the Minister and the DPR comprised in-depth conversations around the role of oil and gas in Africa’s energy transition, the recognition of the private sector as a key driver, and the need for a multi-stakeholder approach. AEW 2021 will extend on this narrative, emphasizing the fact that Africa’s energy transition is market-based and cannot conform to Western ideologies. Rather, both Nigeria and AEW 2021 will demonstrate how an Africa-centric approach is most suitable in initiating an energy transition while at the same time ensuring energy poverty alleviation and economic development.

Serving as a form of prelude to AEW 2021, Ayuk’s visit to Nigeria introduced valuable discussion points which will be further examined at AEW 2021. With a strong delegation of industry leaders, private sector executives, and national oil company representatives coming to Cape Town in November, led by H.E. Chief Timipre Sylva, AEW 2021 comprises the official platform whereby deals regarding Nigeria’s energy sector will be made. Both the AEC and the Ministry are fully committed to driving investment in Nigeria, facilitating deal-making, networking and collaboration.

Africa’s premier energy conference is fully committed to African narratives, African people, and African energy. Register for AEW 2021 and gain valuable insight into some of Africa’s most competitive markets.

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, visit www.aew2021.com or energychamber.org and/or email Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries contact registration@aew2021.com

For sales related enquires contact sales@aew2021.com

For media related enquires contact media@aew2021.com

For speaker opportunity related enquires contact speakers@aew2021.com

Hosted at African Energy Week 2021, the Ghana pavilion will drive a discussion on the value of Liquified Natural Gas as a power generation solution.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) is proud to announce that Ghana will be hosting a pavilion at African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 taking place in Cape Town on the 9^th-12^th of November 2021. Led by Hon. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Ghana’s Minister of Energy, as well as a delegation of industry leaders including Dr. K. K. Sarpong, CEO of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation, the pavilion represents a new exhibition format that emphasizes specific market opportunities and will showcase Ghana’s existing energy developments, upcoming projects, and lucrative investment opportunities. Specifically, Ghana’s pavilion will highlight the value of Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) as a power generation solution, providing an in-depth view of the current market and the enabling regulation driving progress and expansion.

As one of Africa’s leading natural gas producers, Ghana has demonstrated how, through gas directed investment and the right policy, the resource can address energy poverty and expand power accessibility on a regional basis. Specifically, Ghana’s recognition of the value of LNG as a cleaner, more accessible, and increasingly secure energy source has led to the development of large-scale LNG facilities, positioning the country as a both a regional power producer and LNG exporter. The Tema LNG Terminal, for example, serves as sub-Saharan Africa’s first LNG power generation facility, and holds the capacity to receive, store, regasify and deliver 3.4 million tons of LNG per year. In conjunction with the Sankofa Gas Project – a 1,000MW gas-to-power project that provides over 1.6 million households with a consistent power supply – the Tema LNG Terminal is positioning Ghana as an African leader and global competitor in natural gas developments and the AEW 2021 pavilion will further emphasize this.

In addition to directing investment in the natural gas sector, Ghana’s pavilion will emphasize the various upstream opportunities prevalent in the country. Notably, the country has made significant progress in advancing exploration and production within the oil sector, in which the presence of global oil majors has only accelerated progress. In addition to ongoing involvement by Italian multinational Eni and deepwater exploration company Kosmos Energy, Ghana’s national oil company has emerged as a competitive participant in the country’s burgeoning oil sector. By showcasing the country’s oil sector achievements thus far, emphasizing the role that the Ghana-based Springfield E&P Ltd. has played in expanding the sector, the pavilion will highlight that Ghana is a force to be reckoned with, and that oil continues to play a valuable role in Africa’s energy future.

Meanwhile, the pavilion will also promote the value of supportive legislature in accelerating energy sector growth and success. With one of the most transparent and productive regulatory frameworks in Africa, Ghana places energy-focused policy at the forefront of development. Consequently, the country has already attracted significant investment, built against a backdrop of transparency, and aims to promote its enabling environment at the AEW 2021 pavilion. At the pavilion, Ghana will emphasize how a market-driven, local content-focused regulatory framework is one of the key determinants to attracting investment, spurring sectoral growth, and ensuring energy developments translate into tangible benefits for local communities.

“Ghana’s pavilion at AEW 2021 will not only provide valuable insight into the country’s competitive natural gas and oil sectors, but will demonstrate how progressive legislature, market-driven policies, and transparent regulatory frameworks only serve to advance the sector. Through an enabling environment, Africa can attract international investment and increase private sector participation across multiple sectors. Ghana’s pavilion will only emphasize this further,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

AEW 2021 serves as the ideal platform whereby Ghana, among other energy nations, will be able to increase domestic exploration and production, drive investment in new and existing energy developments, and expand regional power sectors. Pavilions such as Ghana’s will showcase the best of what Africa has to offer, emphasizing both market potential and multi-sectoral investment opportunities. Unlike traditional energy conference formats, AEW 2021 focuses on networking and innovative exhibitions to drive foreign investment in Africa, initiating long-term, sustainable energy sector growth in the process.

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, please visit www.aew2021.com or www.energychamber.org and/or reach out directly to Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com 

For sales-related enquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com

For media-related enquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com

For speaker opportunity-related enquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com

The confirmed speaker attendance of the GNPC’s CEO, Dr. Sarpong, will advance a discussion on local participation, capacity and inclusivity across the entire energy sector value chain.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) is excited to announce that Dr. K. K. Sarpong, CEO of the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC) has confirmed his attendance at the upcoming African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 interactive conference and exhibition. Joining Ghana’s Minister of Energy, Hon. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, and a delegation of industry leaders from the country, Dr. Sarpong will speak at the event, driving a dialogue around the value of local content, the pursuit of local capacity and participation, and the role of women in the country’s oil and gas sector.

An industry leader with over 35 years-experience in executive management, Dr. Sarpong has served as CEO of the GNPC since 2017. Under his leadership, the GNPC has made significant progress in accelerating exploration and production across the country. In 2019, the GNPC, in partnership with Springfield E&P, made a billion-dollar discovery in the West Cape Points Block 2, offshore Ghana, emphasizing the world-class standard of its local companies. Ghana has placed upstream activities at the forefront of sectoral growth and continues to attract significant levels of foreign investment through a favorable investor and enabling environment. However, it is local Ghanaian companies that are driving energy sector growth and Dr. Sarpong’s participation at AEW 2021 will only emphasize this.

Dr. Sarpong’s participation at AEW 2021 is set to drive a discussion on the value of local content, promoting the role of local companies and people in creating sustainable project developments. The GNPC’s primary vision “to be a leading global oil and gas company, whose operations have a profound impact on the quality of life of the people of Ghana.” With a mandate “to ensure that Ghana obtains the greatest possible benefits from the development of its petroleum resources,” the GNPC aims to maximize local content within the energy mix, empowering indigenous businesses within the value chain in a bid to boost job creation and economic growth.

Meanwhile, Dr. Sarpong is a strong advocate for the development of local capacity, promoting the role of Ghanaian companies and people in advancing the energy sector. During a speech at the 2^nd Energy Summit in Ghana in 2019, Dr. Sarpong stated that “there is a recognized need to develop local capacity in all aspects of the oil and gas value chain through education, skills and expertise development, transfer of technology and know-how and promote an active research and development regime through collaborative efforts locally and internationally.” Dr. Sarpong promotes local participation as a “sustainable way of realigning the sector and the needs of the country in terms of employment creation and economic growth whilst reducing the impact of capital flight on the economy.” By driving a narrative around the value and role of local businesses and Ghanaian people in accelerating long-term, sustainable project developments, Dr. Sarpong will emphasize self-dependency at AEW 2021, pushing for an ‘Africa beyond aid.’

“Ghana serves as an example for other African nations looking to expand energy sectors and ensure long-term and impactful growth. With the goal of creating a viable, self-dependent economy on the back of sustained investor interest and an active local private and public sector, Ghana is leading the way in ensuring energy investments reap tangible benefits for the local community and overall economy. Dr. Sarpong’s participation at AEW 2021 in November will not only enhance the value of African local content, but place a direct focus on the potential of African nations, African people, and African businesses in fast-tracking continent-wide growth,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, the AEC.

What’s more, Dr. Sarpong’s attendance is set to drive a discussion around the value of local content, gender equality and increase local capacity in the oil and gas sector. As a strong advocate for women’s participation in the energy workforce, especially considering board and executive positions, Dr. Sarpong is leading the way regarding gender inclusivity, recognizing the role that women have to play in accelerating progress and driving sectoral growth. 

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, please visit www.aew2021.com or www.energychamber.org and/or reach out directly to Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com 

For sales-related enquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com

For media-related enquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com

For speaker opportunity-related enquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com

In a move to promote development and end energy poverty by 2030, the African Energy Chamber has announced that it will encourage African countries to boycott companies that boycott African oil and gas.

With the international community pushing for a rapid decrease in carbon emissions due to climate change, there has been a significant decline in foreign investment directed towards the African energy sector. The global climate crisis remains a critical point of discussion and should remain at the top of the agenda with regards to energy development, however, as the international community moves to boycott investments in the African energy sector, African people and African development stand to suffer. The role of oil in Africa’s energy and economic future is apparent, and consequently, should be defended as Western elites move to disrupt African progress.

Despite oil’s potential to lift millions out of poverty and ensure underdeveloped African nations have a chance at economic growth and success, there has been an increasing trend by the international investment community to boycott African energy projects. For many years, many Africans have turned a blind eye to elites in Africa and their western counterparts who have pandered to a radical anti-energy agenda that has not been in the best interest of the African energy sector or African people. With the promise of foreign aid and aid workers, such institutions have insisted on ending oil and gas investments and development, promoting an immediate energy transition which will and continues to prove disastrous for the African continent and its people.

With the end of investment in African oil and gas declared by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, BlackRock, the Royal Bank of Scotland, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and the International Energy Agency, Africa will not be able to alleviate energy poverty. What’s more, organizations such as GreenPeace and Friends of the Earth continue to cause major project disruptions in Africa, directly impacting any opportunity for sectoral and economic growth.  

What’s even more unsettling is that for years, there has been an accelerated push by the international community for Africa to create enabling environments for investment and now that this has been established, the West is ending investment. Through the promotion and drive for amended policies, restructured regulatory frameworks and investor attractive initiatives, Africa has made significant progress in increasing ease of doing business across the African oil and gas sector. Notably, with Nigeria’s recently passed Petroleum Industry Bill, Nigeria has spurred investment in its highly prospective energy sector, and countries such as the Republic of Congo, Angola, and Senegal, through transformative regulatory changes, have focused on attracting foreign investment. How is it that, upon the establishment of enabling environments in which the international community demanded, the same organizations have decided to end investment in African oil and gas projects?

No more. Africans are not going to sit back and allow African elites and financial institutions to destroy our energy industry and the opportunities for job creation, enabling the alleviation of energy poverty. We must utilize free markets and the continent’s enabling environments to allow capital to come into the continent and combat climate change in a responsible manner. There is no denying that the energy transition is vital, however, someone has to pay for it. USD $100 billion for all developing countries is essentially a non-starter, especially considering that western nations will be spending approximately $6 trillion to transition annually.

The African energy transition is just that, a transition – a process or period of changing from one state to another. Abruptly ending all investment into the African energy industry will not enable African countries to generate the critical funds needed to transition to renewable energy solutions in the future. Rather, by boycotting fossil fuels, the international community is essentially boycotting any possible development in Africa, alleviating the opportunity for a transition and leaving millions in energy poverty. According to Ayuk, “if the goal is to move Africa towards increased renewable energy usage, a healthy oil and gas industry is a good and cost-effective way to get there.”  

In response to declining interest in African oil and gas projects, particularly as Western nations continue to interdict African fossil fuel developments, the AEC has declared that it will urge African countries to boycott or refrain from working with international companies that discontinue investments and reject the African oil industry. There is no reason to invest African pension funds or conduct business with financial institutions that refuse to invest with African energy companies because of climate change. Financial institutions that discriminate against Africa’s oil and gas industry in the name of climate change are wrong and desperately need to change both their mindsets and actions.

Look at the facts; Africa is not to blame for any climate issues and should not be made to pay the price for it. As the AEC has stated in the past, demonizing energy companies is not a constructive way forward. Ignoring the role that carbon-based fuels have played in driving human progress distorts the public debate. We cannot expect African nations – which together emitted seven times less CO2 than China last year, and four times less than the US, according to the Global Carbon Atlas – to undermine promising opportunities for economic development by simply aligning with the Western view of how to address carbon emissions. Make no mistake, the energy industry has led the world in emissions reductions.

Making energy poverty history by 2030 should be our most urgent priority. The AEC has taken a principal position in refusing to attend Africa Oil Week in Dubai because we disagree with the London-based narrative that African oil and gas investments must end. By hosting AEW 2021 in Cape Town on the 9^th-12^th of November 2021, the AEC is committed to the African narrative, African voices, and African energy sector growth. 

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, visit www.aew2021.com or energychamber.org and/or email Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries contact registration@aew2021.com  

For sales related enquires contact sales@aew2021.com 

For media related enquires contact media@aew2021.com 

For speaker opportunity related enquires contact speakers@aew2021.com

*African Energy Chamber

The African Energy Chamber’s (AEC) U.S.-Africa Committee is excited to endorse the U.S.-Africa Energy Forum (USAEF) 2021 (October 4-5; Houston, Texas), the premier platform for connecting U.S. companies and partners to the African energy sector.

• The African Energy Chamber’s U.S.-Africa Committee has endorsed the U.S.-Africa Energy Forum (USAEF) 2021 (October 4-5; Houston, Texas) as the premier platform for strengthening bilateral trade and investment.
• The Committee calls on American investors, financiers and service providers to participate in the two-day event that is set to solidify the U.S. as the partner of choice to African energy projects.
• U.S. majors have already played a significant role in gas monetization on the continent, with the clean-burning fossil fuel able to fulfill African electrification and industrialization objectives.  

The African Energy Chamber’s (AEC) U.S.-Africa Committee is excited to endorse the U.S.-Africa Energy Forum (USAEF) 2021 (October 4-5; Houston, Texas), the premier platform for connecting U.S. companies and partners to the African energy sector. In partnership with event organizers Energy Capital & Power, the Committee calls onfinance, venture capital, junior and mid-cap oil firms and service and technology providers to speak, sponsor and participate in the inaugural event.

Appointed in June 2020 as the first committee on the AEC’s Advisory Board, the U.S.-Africa Committee serves tosupport the development of enhanced bilateral energy cooperation, with a view to driving capital, expertise and technology transfers between the two entities. The AEC believes that U.S. companies, investors and project developers are best equipped to partner with African governments and firms, on the back of a new administration and progressive climate commitment.

“The U.S. is acutely aware of the positive growth and transformation that accompanies energy development – the very growth of which the African continent isin pursuit,” says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “Under the Biden Administration, the U.S. has leveled up its commitment to allocating funds to various energy initiatives both at home and abroad. We must build on this momentum and strengthen the position of the U.S. as the primary investor and partner to Africa, as the continent undergoes a journey to eradicate energy poverty and boost socioeconomic development.” Added Ayuk

As Africa finds itself at the center of the global energy transition, new opportunities in natural gas, renewables, off-grid power generation and energy storage have emerged on the continent, attracting billions from U.S. oil majors to date.   

In Angola, Chevron established the first upstream natural gas partnership in the country – along with BP, Eni, Total and state-owned Sonangol – that represents a two-billion-dollar investment in gas-processing facilities in Soyo. In Equatorial Guinea, U.S. operators including Noble Energy, Marathon Oil and Chevron executed the first phase of the country’s flagship Gas Mega Hub – the $330-million Alen gas monetization project – that targets the creation of an intra-African liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade.  

Africa is also rich in strategic minerals needed to fast-track the U.S. along its own energy transition. American firms like Alpha Sierra and its CEO C. Derek Campbell are aggressively playing a key role in targeting new opportunities to develop Africa’s potential with rare earth elements and critical minerals that will be essential in the manufacturing of batteries, magnets, and other components important to the clean energy economy.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo, for example, is estimated to contain one million tons of lithium resources and is a global leader in the production of cobalt, copper, tantalum and tin. Such minerals are required to meet growing market demand for green batteries that have the capacity to fuel U.S. clean energy by powering carbon-free grids, electric vehicles and green technologies.

Investment opportunities along the clean energy value chain – along with those in Exploration & Production, natural gas and LNG, power grids and connectivity, energy storage, infrastructure and manufacturing – will be on display at USAEF 2021, as U.S. and African policymakers and finance leadersunite to promote bilateral cooperation and advance an agenda of mutual, inclusive growth.   

Regulatory changes around Africa send a clear message that Africa is ready for investment in its energy industry. The Nigerian Petroleum Industry Bill tells Americans that Nigeria now has a clear vision with a sound legal and regulatory framework that would support a coherent, investor-friendly oil and natural gas sector. Congo, Senegal, Gabon, Tanzania, Ghana, Mozambique have set up amazing fiscal incentives for investments into low carbon LNG and power projects.

“As Africa and America push to make energy poverty history, we in Africa must note that being attractive to investors is not enough. The lack of transparency is keeping us from reaching our full potential,” continued Ayuk. “At the African Energy Chamber, we will continue to advocate for and believe that better policymaking would help. Free markets, personal responsibility, less regulation, low taxes, limited government, individual liberties, and economic empowerment will boost African energy markets and economies and put us on our path towards making energy poverty history. We should fight against a new aid and welfare culture that many young Africans are moving towards, and American values of hard work and innovation can help.” Concluded Ayuk

To register for the USAEF 2021 virtual event on 12 July, please visit https://bit.ly/3xiL2JY.

To attend the USAEF 2021 private networking event (Watergate Hotel, Washington D.C.; 12 July), please visit https://bit.ly/3jFn2Nf.  

To learn more about U.S.-Africa energy investment opportunities, find out more information regarding sponsorship opportunities at USAEF 2021, or register for the Houston summit, visit www.USAfricaEnergy.com or contact James Chester at james@energycapitalpower.com. 

*African Energy Chamber

As the world continues to debate what energy transition means and what the implications would be, Angola, like many other major oil producers will have to reaccess their oil and gas industry and its potential to continue being a leading destination for energy investments.

By Verner Ayukegba*

Over the past three decades, Angola has proven to be a tier one destination for major oil and gas producers. It is for that reason, that the country is host to all major International Oil Companies. As the world continues to debate what energy transition means and what the implications would be, Angola, like many other major oil producers will have to reaccess their oil and gas industry and its potential to continue being a leading destination for energy investments. Offshore exploration, especially during the boom years of 2002 to 2008, led to oil production in Angola reaching close to 2 million barrels per day, providing Angola with much needed resources for its post-conflict reconstruction.

In light of the ongoing push towards decarbonization, a commitment by many countries, especially western industrialised nations, International energy companies and organisations towards achieving net zero emissions between 2030 and 2050, many have asked if Angola will keepits place as a choice destination for international energy companies.

In order  to answer the above question on Angola’s investment attractiveness postively, the government, under the leadership of HE President João Lourenço initiated the National Development Plan 2018-2022 and the revised Hydrocarbon Exploration Strategy 2020-2025 – authorised by Presidential Decree 282/20. This seeks to intensify, research and geologically evaluate concessions and free areas of sedimentary basins for exploration in Angola.

In response to the growing chorus around energy transition, and how this will affect the oil and gas industry in Angola, the Ministry of Mineral Resources and Petroleum, headed by HE Diamantino Pedro Azevedo and other major stakeholders in Angola like the National Oil, Gas and Biofuel’s Agency (ANPG) and SONANGOL are all actively exploring ways of adapting their operations to reflect the new normal. Efforts are being made to encourage more efficient operations that will lead to a reduction in the carbon footprint of operators, lead to less waste, and also increase the commercial use of associated gas. The latter, is likely to increase significantly in importance as a major transition fuel over the next 20-30 years.

Natural gas acts as a key intermediary in the energy transition, releasing fewer emissions than coal and petroleum products, while being able to reliably supply energy to enable production at scale and offset the inherent intermittence of energies. renewables. The Ministry of Mineral Resources and Petroleum is currently leading an ambitious effort to monetize gas reserves by attracting investments into downstream infrastructure and gas-fired power generation projects. The establishment of the New Gas Consortium that represents Angola’s first major natural gas partnership, brings together Eni, BP, Chevron, Total and state-owned Sonangol. Through better use of this resource, natural gas will play a pivotal role not only in supporting Angola’s effort to increase access to electricity, but also in accelerating industrialization and the transition to cleaner energy sources. It is the government’s hope, that this is only a first step to many more partnerships and a petrochemical industry. Commercialisation of gas can also lead to the establishment of a petrochemical industry that can produce fertilizer to boost agriculture in Angola and regionally. The government has already signalled that it is ready to grant attractive special concessions to major investors in refining and petrochemicals by granting a Gemcorp-Sonaref led consortium lucrative tax concessions to build the 60,000 barrel per day Cabinda refinery. The call for other investors to follow is loud and clear.

In the upstream space, a licensing round in line with Presidential Decree 52/19, which foresees yearly bid rounds until 2025 is ongoing. Angola’s regulator, the ANPG, is intent on attracting interest far beyond the traditional players in Angola’s oil and gas sector. Special attention has been given to attract mid-sized explorers to Angola’s basins that have proven prolific in recent years and provided returns for companies far beyond industry averages in other locations. Six licenses onshore Kwanza Basin and three licenses onshore Lower Congo Basin are currently on offer for this round.

Specifically, the construction of a US$2 billion gas processing plant in Soyo, led by the NGC, will produce refined gas in liquid form that will be directed for export to foreign markets and to the combined cycle power plant of the Soyo, producing energy for the national grid. Meanwhile, Angola’s LNG plant was the first to develop domestic natural gas resources and is one of the largest single investments in the Angolan oil and gas industry. Unlike most installations that use non-associated gas, this plant uses associated gas as a primary power source, thus contributing more significantly to the elimination of gas flaring, to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and to the promotion of environmental management. Both installations constitute a critical step on Angola’s path towards the sustainable and efficient use of its natural resources.

Angola, like many other African countries and other stakeholders globally, continues to believe, that there is a role for hydrocarbons in the age of energy transition. It is unreasonable, for western based organisations and governments, who have benefited tremendously from hydrocarbons, to demand of Angola and the rest of Africa that they immediately end the exploration and production of Hydrocarbons for the purpose of the word achieving its emission targets. Africa, with 16.72% of the world’s population, is responsible, according to the UN accounts for less than 3% of global carbon dioxide emissions from energy and industrial sources, compared to 15% for the USA, 16% for Europe and 28% for China. Furthermore, global demand for hydrocarbons is likely to be significant for at least another half a century even as it is expected to decline, according to numerous studies. Furthermore, many African countries like Angola depend significantly on revenue from hydrocarbons for the financing of education, healthcare and job creation. It is therefore unreasonable, to demand a speedy end of such a vital industry.

Natural Gas consumption and production in the USA has increased by close to 100% between 1990 and 2020. This has led to significant reductions in emissions in America, as many coal plants got replaced with gas. Gas has been good for America. It is also good for Africa and Angola. We must therefore support Angola in its quest to develop its gas resources, both for export and industrial use.

It is however important to note, that the Angolan government is committed to promoting renewables. As such, increasing amounts of the government’s expenditure towards expanding access to power are being committed to solar projects, in addition to incentivising public private partnerships in the sector. Italian oil company Eni, in partnership with Sonangol, is leading the construction of a 50 MW solar power plant in Namibe province, which is expected to start operations in 2022. Angola offers investors a unique opportunity to introduce capital, technology and best practices to meet the country’s growing energy demand as well as its development goals.

Angola’s vast opportunities in the development of natural gas and other energy sources will be on display during the upcoming Angola Oil & Gas 2021 Conference and Exhibition, September 9-10, in Luanda, developed in partnership with the Ministry of Mineral Resources and Petroleum. This unique event encompasses a dynamic campaign to promote the energy sector – led by the continent’s leading energy investment platform Energy Capital & Power, formerly Africa Oil & Power – which includes an investment report and documentary Africa Energy Series : Angola 2021, and a series of international representations designed to place Angola at the center of the attention of investors around the world.

*African Energy Chamber.Verner Ayukegba is Senior Vice President at the African Energy Chamber

By hosting an interactive exhibition and pavilion at African Energy Week 2021, Senegal will drive a discussion on the role of natural gas and energy diversification in Africa’s energy future.

Taking place in Cape Town on the 9^th-12^th of November in a newly adapted and revolutionary conference structure, African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 will comprise a number of high-level pavilions hosted by leading oil and gas countries across Africa. Notably, Senegal’s pavilion, led by a strong delegation of industry leaders from the country, will showcase some of the significant investment and development opportunities the country has to offer. Under the direction of H.E. Aissatou Sophie Gladima, Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Senegal’s pavilion is expected to drive a discussion around the role of natural gas in Africa, energy diversification, and the value of gas-directed investments.

Backed by over 450 billion cubic meters of proven natural gas reserves, Senegal is rapidly establishing itself as a leader in African gas monetization and development with notable projects including the $4.8 billion Greater Tortue Ahmeyim project led by BP and Kosmos Energy. The country has ambitious gas plans and aims to fully exploit reserves, increasing gas exports and reducing heavy fuel imports in the process. Senegal’s pavilion will promote the role of natural gas in Africa, using a platform whereby tangible examples and successful Senegalese project case studies are presented to a wide audience. Rather than simply tell the story of Senegal’s gas sector, the pavilion will enable the country to visually showcase it. 

Meanwhile, Senegal aims to increase its electrification rate to 100% by 2025, and plans to use gas to do so. By shifting Karpowership’s use of heavy fuel to Liquified Natural Gas and focusing on the construction of notable gas-to-power projects such as the Cap des Biches combined-cycle gas turbine power plant, Senegal is directing critical investment to cleaner power generation solutions, facilitating an energy transition in the process.

“Senegal is rapidly becoming a trend setter in natural gas developments, emphasizing how supportive policies, private sector participation, and multi-sector integration can fast-track progress. The country’s pavilion at AEW 2021 will not only showcase the range of investment opportunities present in Senegal, but will serve as an example for other countries looking at utilizing natural gas more effectively and efficiently,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, the AEC.

What’s more, Senegal’s pavilion will showcase a range of investment opportunities prevalent across multiple sectors. In addition to natural gas developments, the pavilion will showcase some of the country’s most impressive renewable energy projects in a bid to drive further progress and development across this high-rewarding sector. Senegal has already made notable progress in advancing its green energy sector through several large-scale renewable projects. The country’s commitment to the Scaling Solar Program, for example – a World Bank Group and International Finance Corporation initiative that seeks to mobilize privately funded grid-connected solar projects in Africa – is driving investment and addressing electricity challenges country wide. Additionally, the proposed Sambangalou dam project, a 128MW hydroelectric power station in Senegal, aims to increase domestic installed capacity and further diversify the country’s power sector. Senegal is fully focused on transitioning to cleaner energy solutions and will showcase the country’s potential at its AEW 2021 pavilion.

What makes Senegal’s pavilion unique, however, and one not-to-be-missed, is that rather than showcase its energy sectors as separate investment opportunities, the pavilion emphasizes how sectoral integration and a multi-sector approach to energy investments is critical in expanding Africa’s energy sector and driving a continent-wide energy transition. Specifically, the pavilion will showcase the value of energy diversification and unification in addressing energy poverty, establishing secure regional electricity supply lines, and accelerating socio-economic growth in 2021 and beyond. Driven by the Emerging Senegal Plan – a policy framework aimed at getting Senegal on the road to development by 2035 -, Senegal is focused on diversifying its energy mix and is seeking investors to help achieve this objective.

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, visit www.aew2021.com or energychamber.org and/or email Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries contact registration@aew2021.com  

For sales related enquires contact sales@aew2021.com 

For media related enquires contact media@aew2021.com

For speaker opportunity related enquires contact speakers@aew2021.com

*African Energy Chamber

Energy poverty should be the most important issue right now and Africa needs to fast track gas development.

By Boris Esono Nwenfor

The Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber NJ Ayuk says Nigeria’s signing of the Petroleum Industry Bill will help fast track the Country into Energy Development. He says the passing of this deal “is a game-changer with so much enthusiasm amongst the oil and gas producers.”

Cameroonian-born NJ Ayuk, who is the managing partner of Centurion Law, a pan-African corporate law conglomerate that specializes in energy, extractive industries and the financial sector, was talking to NTA News’ Business Express with discussions centred on the energy transition, investment and the role Nigeria has played to the continent.

NJ Ayuk also shared his insights on employment and enterprise in Nigeria, the recent passing of the PIB and elaborates on the road the continent needs to take to eradicate energy poverty by 2030.

Journalist: What is your opinion on the recently passed Petroleum Industry Bill 2021 by the (Nigerian) National Assembly?

NJ Ayuk: It is a really good bill and good progress for Nigeria. Our industry has waited for about 13 years to have this bill; it should be done. It comes at a critical time where we are dealing with so much around the world with energy transition and how we can sit up Nigeria to move and the fast track itself into energy development. There could not have been a better incentive to really drive the oil and gas industry forward and also expand through diversification. We hope that the fast track its implementation quick.

Journalist: What do you see as the benefits of this transition because there are lots of discussions around/ what do you make of the transition for Africa?

NJ Ayuk: We have to take things into context. Africa has carbon emissions ten times lower than Europe, seventeen times less than China and twenty-one times less than the USA. You cannot get someone who has been the victim of carbon emissions to be the one paying the price and penalties. We still need time. Let us look at the bigger picture; 850 million people across the continent do not have access to clean cooking or even electricity. That is a big issue.

We need to make energy poverty the most important issue right now than ensuring that somebody in Norway or Scandinavia is happy. But we still have to look at development; we still have to drive up petrochemicals, urea, NPK, fertilizer plants so that people in Africa can feed themselves and not try to cross the Mediterranean to look for greener pastures in Europe.

If we continue producing hydrocarbon; we need to use it well and I think that is what the PIB does, if we do that, we have a fighting chance to still develop, protect the environment and still keep carbon emissions less than 1.5 degrees which we will not be hurting the environment as much as possible. Gas is going to change how we look at the future especially here in Nigeria and across Africa.

Journalist: Looking at the number of gas reserves in Nigeria, how critical is it for the oil and gas sector in Nigeria and the Africa continent to get it right.

NJ Ayuk: Nigeria is more of a gas country than an oil country. When it comes to gas you can do power plants; you cannot run industries with generators. So, you need gas for your development and you need gas for diversification. The onus is on us to see how we can attract that needed investment into the Nigerian market and around Africa because if you capture some of the gas that will be flowing in Nigeria you will do well. The most profitable Nigerian petroleum scheme has been the Nigerian LNG; it has always reported profits back-to-back. If it is working well, we should increase it.

I will even suggest that Nigeria launches another four LNG trains so that you can compete with Qatar and Russia and the potential for that is there. Sometimes we have an addiction to oil because we think it is too cheap but we need to fast track gas development because it is going to be a transition field into energy transition which is critical and let us pay attention to that.

Journalist: What is the significance of this partnership Nigeria has had with OPEC; we just celebrated fifty years?

NJ Ayuk: Fifty years of OPEC doing one thing; creating stability in the market, nobody wants volatility. When you have that it is bad for Nigeria, consumers and producers. Fifty years you have to look at it from the standpoint of the role Africans have played; the role Nigeria has played and looked at what saved the oil and gas industry; it was the declaration of cooperation of OPEC.

We need to start thinking; the past is a reference not a resident and where do we go from here between Nigeria’ relationship and OPEC; do we get more Nigerians into research, preparing ourselves for the future and what needs to be done. That is what is going to shape how OPEC works in Nigeria, how we look at the African Petroleum Producers Association.

As head of the African Chamber, one of the things I say is to use Nigerian skills which are top-notch, well-skilled. They have made some mistakes but sometimes you have to learn from those who have made mistakes than those who try to tell you they know too much. Mozambique is going to have a lot of gas, they could learn from Nigeria; same as Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Angola.

Journalist: You just took part in the 20^th edition of the oil and gas conference exhibition, what were the major highlights from there?

NJ Ayuk: The major takeaway is we are back; the oil and gas industry is back. There has been COVID and we could not meet or talk to each other. More importantly, it was the passing of the PIB which is a game-changer. I have never seen so much enthusiasm in a room, in Nigeria with oil and gas producers. There is some excitement because there is going to be drilling in deep water and so we are going to see more gas discoveries and also there is going to be drilling in shallow waters.

Sometimes we look at how much money goes here and there but what is more important is that people are enthusiastic; people are now thinking we can do this and Nigeria needs that more than ever; coming out of COVID, coming out of a market where a lot of people lost revenue with their difficult market. Foreign investors are looking at Nigeria again and are saying we can invest in some of the new fields that are coming up and they are seeing Niger’s great market.

* The African Energy Chamber will be hosting the maiden edition of the African Energy week later in the the year. For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, please visit www.aew2021.com or www.energychamber.org and/or reach out directly to Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com 

For sales-related enquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com

For media-related enquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com

For speaker opportunity-related enquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com

-Energy poverty alleviation remains top of the agenda for African Energy Week 2021.

Energy comprises a critical component of social and economic development in which the lack thereof serves as a direct hinderance to economic growth. Despite being arguably the richest continent in terms of natural resources, Africa is also considered the poorest continent in terms of development, attributed to electrification and energy accessibility challenges.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) posits that approximately 620 million people in Africa do not have access to electricity, representing nearly two-thirds of the entire population. Accessibility challenges have been attributed to infrastructure deficits, the lack of critical investment, high-risk or uncertain regulatory environments deterring foreign participation, and the lack of required knowledge and skills to expand the energy and power sectors. Meanwhile, with approximately 656 million people currently living in rural or dispersed locations across Africa, the high cost of providing services to such remote places has only further accentuated the energy crisis.

Despite the number of people without access to electricity gradually decreasing since 2013, the IEA suggests that the COVID-19 crisis is essentially reversing progress made in recent years to increase access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy – an objective that forms part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, of which many African countries have confirmed their commitment. COVID-19 impacts concerning lack of available finance, the shift in priority and government capital to the health sector, and implemented lockdown measures restricting project activity have caused significant disruptions, driving even more people back into energy poverty. The IEA notes that over 30 million people already connected have retreated back into energy poverty at the end of 2020, attributed to affordability challenges. Therefore, there has never been a more critical time to redirect a continent-wide focus on increasing energy accessibility.

African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 comes at a time where drastic action is required in order to accelerate energy developments and electrify Africa. Representing the first and only Africa-focused energy event to take place in Africa in 2021, AEW 2021 will serve as a catalyst that will help transform the African energy space, making energy poverty alleviation a reality by 2030. AEW 2021 has placed making energy poverty history at the top of the agenda, and with universal access requiring approximately USD$ 20 billion of annual investments from 2021 – 2030, through networking and facilitating deals, the event seeks to make this goal a reality.

At the top of the agenda lies the renewable energy sector and the energy transition. With national electricity plans being implemented across the continent, and the widespread redirecting towards renewable power generation alternatives, significant developments have emerged within the solar, wind, and hydroelectric industries. Notably, projects such as the Grand Inga hydroelectric expansion project in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Noor Solar Complex in Morocco, and the Lake Turkana Wind Power project in Kenya represent some of Africa’s biggest renewable energy achievements and are significant contributors to alleviating energy poverty across the continent.

Additionally, AEW 2021 promotes the role of natural gas in Africa’s energy transition, recognizing how gas-to-power developments can significantly increase energy access continent wide. Representing an ideal transitionary resource with its lower greenhouse gas emissions, natural gas also acts as a reliable and readily available power generation solution. Accordingly, backed by major discoveries in Mozambique, Ghana, Senegal, and Tanzania, Africa is turning to natural gas to increase energy security and expand access. Projects such as Nigeria’s Kingline Power Project, a 550MW gas-to-power facility expected to provide 4.5 Terawatt hours of secure, affordable energy; the Temane Thermal Power Station, a 450MW gas-fired power plant in Mozambique; and Ghana’s 1,300MW gas-fired power plant all demonstrate the value of gas-to-power.

Therefore, driven by the continent’s significant oil, gas and renewable energy potential, and built against a backdrop of existing project success, AEW 2021 aims to directly address African energy poverty by uniting stakeholders with a common agenda, and facilitating large-scale energy developments and investment across the renewable and natural gas power generation and transmission sectors.  

What makes AEW 2021 the idealenergy event to address energy poverty, is its multi-sectoral approach. Unlike other energy conferences which focus on one specific industry, such as oil, AEW 2021 unites multiple sectors from across the entire energy value chain. Accordingly, AEW 2021 believes in integration, collaboration, and partnerships and therefore, presents a platform whereby transformative energy deals will be made, development finance mobilized, and energy poverty alleviated.

The AEC’s focus is clear, establish a platform whereby stakeholders can facilitate productive deals, attract critical foreign capital, and drive African energy sector growth. To take part in Africa’s transformation and to be a key facilitator and contributor to poverty eradication in 2021 and beyond, register now at www.aew2021.com and attend Africa’s premier energy event.

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, please visit www.aew2021.com or www.energychamber.org and/or reach out directly to Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com 

For sales-related enquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com

For media-related enquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com

For speaker opportunity-related enquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com

*African Energy Chamber

Hon. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Minister of Energy for the Republic of Ghana, has confirmed that he will be attending the highly anticipated African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 taking place in Cape Town on the 9^th-12^th of November; Representing one of West Africa’s most promising natural gas regions, and one of the African countries most likely to achieve 100% universal electricity access by 2030, Ghana holds significant investment opportunities which will be demonstrated at and accelerated by AEW 2021; Hon. Prempeh will be leading a delegation of Ghanaian industry leaders and executives, including Ghana’s Petroleum Commission and the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation, to AEW 2021, opening a dialogue on natural gas, Liquified Natural Gas power generation, and oil’s role in Africa’s energy future.

Hon. Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Minister of Energy of the Republic of Ghana, has officially confirmed his attendance at African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 taking place in Cape Town on the 9^th-12^th of November 2021. Leading a delegation of industry leaders and executives from both the Petroleum Commission and the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), Hon. Dr. Prempeh will be speaking, endorsing, and participating in Africa’s premier energy conference.

Under the leadership of Hon. Dr. Prempeh, Ghana has made significant headway in establishing a competitive natural gas sector. By focusing on key projects that aim to fully exploit the country’s resources, rapidly increase power generation, and decrease heavy fuel imports, Hon. Dr. Prempeh has revitalized Ghana’s promising natural gas industry.

Notable projects include the Tema LNG Terminal, a $350 million Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) import terminal project that has the capacity to receive, store, regasify and deliver approximately 3.4 million tons of LNG per day. The project comprises sub-Saharan Africa’s first LNG power generation facility, positioning the country as a regional power producer and key facilitator in Africa’s energy transition. Construction commenced two years ago, backed by Helios Investment Partners and Africa Infrastructure Investment Managers, with the facility receiving its first LNG cargo in May 2021. The Terminal allows Ghana to fully exploit its natural gas resources – estimated at 0.8 trillion cubic feet in 2020 -, enabling increased natural gas production whilst decreasing heavy fuel imports – already annual oil imports have dropped by 12 million barrels.

Meanwhile, the Sankofa Gas Project has also been instrumental in positioning Ghana as a natural gas leader. Approved in 2015, the 1,000MW gas-to-power project aims to increase the availability of gas for power generation by leveraging private capital investment. Under the auspices of Hon. Dr. Prempeh, the Sankofa project has achieved significant success, providing a reliable and consistent power supply to over 1.6 million households. Accordingly, the project has positioned Ghana in the lead towards 100% universal electricity access by 2030.

“Natural gas has a transformative role to play in increasing energy security, alleviating energy poverty, and facilitating a transition to cleaner fuel sources. Ghana has been a trend-setter in this field, demonstrating how, with the right policies and political will, a country can fully exploit its reserves and drive power generation to address energy poverty. Ghana’s natural gas journey is commendable, and African Energy Week 2021 will only further the road to success,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

In addition to remarkable natural gas developments, Ghana has a made significant progress in advancing oil exploration and production with the active presence of several oil majors active. Notable international players in Ghana include Italian multinational oil and gas company Eni, who have placed Ghana as one of their key countries in the company’s 2020-2023 strategy, and leading deepwater exploration and production company Kosmos Energy, who has been active in Ghana since 2007. What’s more, with world-class exploration and production companies of its own, Ghana has been proactive in driving local participation and success in its own industry. Such companies include Springfield E&P Ltd., who, in 2019, made a billion-dollar discovery alongside GNPC in the West Cape Three Points Block 2, offshore Ghana. Following successful offshore drilling campaigns, the discovery has positioned local Ghanaian companies at the forefront of its burgeoning industry, and has further established the country as an attractive upstream exploration and investment market for both regional and international players.

Additionally, Hon. Dr. Prempeh has reaffirmed a commitment to rapidly increasing domestic crude oil production, with the renovation of the Tema Oil Refinery a top priority. In 2017, an explosion at the 45,000 barrels per day refinery caused a halt in production, after which operators have been working hard to resume production. Hon. Dr. Prempeh has signaled his support for the refinery, attributing the value of its restoration to sustained job creation and increased domestic capacity. By ensuring the facility returns to pre-explosion capacity levels, Hon. Dr. Prempeh is committed to reducing oil imports.

Hon. Dr. Prempeh has been committed to ensuring increased private sector participation in Ghana’s oil and gas industry. The country boasts one of the most modern, transparent, and productive regulatory frameworks in Africa. With a strong local content component, Ghana’s legislature drives socioeconomic growth through increased inclusivity and private sector participation. Additionally, the framework is market-driven, and provides a critical outline for all upstream and downstream activities, accelerating exploration and production both onshore and offshore.

By focusing on an enabling environment for investors, and introducing independent power producers to increase thermal generation capacity using crude oil and natural gas, Hon. Dr. Prempeh recognizes the value of an inclusive and commercially focused sector. Accordingly, Ghana has created numerous investment opportunities through its regulatory restructuring and decentralization of the value chain. By speaking at AEW 2021, Hon. Dr. Prempeh will provide international stakeholders with valuable insight into the range of opportunities in Ghana.

With Africa’s gas miracle and continent-wide LNG projects remaining a key area of focus at AEW 2021, participation by one of the continent’s most promising gas giants will further the agenda of the role of natural gas in Africa’s energy future. Additionally, Ghana’s participation will enable the country to present key investment opportunities to both regional and international financiers. Despite making significant headway in terms of power generation, Ghana still lacks the required distribution and transmission infrastructure necessary for 100% access. Accordingly, the country possesses critical investment opportunities, which will be presented to international stakeholders at the AEW 2021 interactive conference and exhibition. 

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, please visit www.AEW2021.com or www.EnergyChamber.org and/or reach out directly to Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com

For sales-related enquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com

For media-related enquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com

For speaker opportunity-related enquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com

*African Energy Chamber

By opening a dialogue on African upstream activities, Ilyanin will emphasize the role of both oil and gas in Africa’s energy future.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) is proud to announce African Energy Week (AEW) 2021’s newest speaker confirmation, Vladimir Ilyanin, Deputy Managing Director of International Business Development and Strategy, Gazprom EP International B.V. Representing a key figure in expanding international stakeholder participation in African upstream opportunities, Ilyanin will drive  dialogue around African exploration and production, natural gas monetization and Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) opportunities and challenges.

With key areas of focus including managing upstream projects and searching, evaluating and acquiring new petroleum assets in the world’s major oil and gas regions, Gazprom is seeking to widen its footprint in emerging African markets. Despite its significant oil potential, Africa only accounted for approximately nine percent of the global oil output in 2019. As the continent seeks to address energy poverty and increase domestic economic revenues, many countries have launched new exploration initiatives, leading to an influx in new opportunities for international stakeholders. Accordingly, companies such as Gazprom are redirecting a focus on Africa, in which AEW 2021 – representing the only Africa-focused energy event to take place in 2021 – will further the exploration agenda by uniting international stakeholders with African opportunities.

“As one of the newest members on the AEC’s advisory board and representing a key figure in African exploration and production, Ilyanin will help facilitate a conversation around oil’s future in Africa. Africa is aggressively pursuing socioeconomic growth with the aim of ending energy poverty by 2030, and both oil and gas have valuable roles to play in making this objective a reality,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, the AEC.

Ilyanin’s participation will be particularly valuable for African governments and companies seeking partnerships. By integrating African opportunities with Gazprom’s expertise, sustained growth and expansion within Africa’s oil and gas sector can be realized. Notably, Gazprom specializes in exploration activities; drilling onshore and offshore wells; producing, processing and transporting hydrocarbons; and building and upgrading oil and gas facilities. By capitalizing on Gazprom’s expertise, partner nations will be able to drive exploration and production, enacting long-term socioeconomic growth.

Additionally, Ilyanin will open a dialogue regarding gas monetization and opportunities and challenges for African countries. With significant gas reserves discovered in Senegal, Mozambique, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Algeria, Tanzania, Equatorial Guinea, Congo-Brazzaville, and Angola, Africa’s gas miracle and its potential in emerging African markets, as well as small-scale LNG, comprise key discussion topics at AEW 2021. Ilyanin’s participation is expected to drive this discussion, emphasizing the role of natural gas in Africa’s energy future.

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, please visit www.AEW2021.com or www.EnergyChamber.org and/or reach out directly to Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org.

For registration related enquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com.

For sales-related enquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com.

For media-related enquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com.

For speaker opportunity-related enquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com.

*Source African Energy Chamber

H.E. Mahamadou joins a multitude of industry leaders and VIP’s at AEW 2021, all committed to keeping Africa-focused energy events and associated narratives in Africa.

H.E. Mahamane Sani Mahamadou, Minister of Petroleum, Energy and Renewable Energies of the Republic of Niger, has confirmed his attendance and participation at African Energy Week (AEW) 2021, taking place in Cape Town on the 9^th-12^th of November 2021; With a focus on increasing domestic installed capacity, spurring oil and gas infrastructure developments, and establishing intra-African ties, H.E. Mahamadou is transforming Niger’s energy sector; H.E. Mahamadou joins a multitude of industry leaders and VIP’s at AEW 2021, all committed to keeping Africa-focused energy events and associated narratives in Africa.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) is proud to announce the attendance of Niger’s Minister of Petroleum, Energy and Renewable Energies, H.E. Mahamane Sani Mahamadou, at African Energy Week (AEW) 2021. Representing one of Africa’s most promising energy sectors, H.E. Mahamadou’s will lead a country delegation to AEW 2021, driving the discussion around the role of oil and gas in Africa’s energy future. Backed by other VIP confirmations made in the last week, Niger’s participation reaffirms West Africa’s commitment to both AEW 2021 and Africa’s energy future.

H.E. Mahamadou has been instrumental in the development of Niger’s significant energy resources, expanding renewable energy projects and facilitating critical investment in the country’s promising oil and gas sector. With the goal of establishing Niger as a regional oil hub, and spurring job creation, knowledge sharing, and local content country wide, H.E. Mahamadou represents a key figure in Africa’s energy sector and is expected to be a valuable participant at AEW 2021.

Since his appointment in April 2021, H.E. Mahamadou has redirected a focus on the country’s burgeoning oil sector, prioritizing infrastructure developments such as the 2000km, US$4.5 billion crude oil pipeline linking the highly prospective Agadem Rift Basin in Niger to the Beninese Coast. With an expected capacity of 90,000 barrels per day upon completion in 2023, the pipeline is expected to increase domestic production five times over, establishing the country as a regional oil producer and global competitor.

The pipeline will provide a direct link between Niger’s abundant resources and international markets, increasing export opportunities and driving domestic production. Already, with two major oil producers active in the country, namely, the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) – currently the main operator of the Niger-Benin pipeline – and Savannah Energy, Niger is driving frontier exploration and associated production. These producers have been instrumental in establishing Niger’s oil sector, leading drilling prospects which have led to significant discoveries. Coupled with an added focus on local content, Niger’s oil sector, under the leadership of H.E. Mahamadou, has driven job creation, increasing energy access and socioeconomic growth in the process.

“What Niger and the oil majors have managed to achieve in such as short space of time is impressive, demonstrating how political will, a transparent and productive regulatory framework, and an enabling investor environment can drive energy sector growth. AEW 2021 presents crucial opportunities, not only for Niger, but for oil majors such as CNPC and Savannah who are looking at expanding their footprint in African markets. AEW 2021 represents the platform whereby companies such as CNPC and Savannah can showcase their achievements and establish new partnerships to further develop and capitalize on Africa’s abundant resources,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, the AEC.

What’s more, in addition to oil sector developments, H.E. Mahamadou is prioritizing power generation and associated infrastructure – particularly regarding renewable resources – in a bid to increase installed power capacity to meet rising demand and support country wide economic growth. Despite power transmission and distribution remaining a state monopoly, Niger, through the implemented Electricity Code, has liberalized power generation and production in a bid to increase private sector participation. Accordingly, the power sector holds unique investment opportunities whereby global and regional players have a role to play.

H.E. Mahamadou has played a pivotal role in the country’s renewable energy sector. By joining pan-African renewable energy programs such as Scaling Solar, signed in June 2021 in partnership with the World Bank Group, Niger aims to generate 30% of its power through sustainable sources by 2035. Recently, the International Finance Corporation and H.E. Mahamadou announced a 50MW solar power project which, when online, will equate to 20% of the country’s installed capacity.

“Niger is setting a trend for other African countries looking to diversify their energy mix and capitalize on renewable energy power generation solutions. Projects such as Scaling Solar, initiated under transformative renewable energy policies and national objectives, serve as catalyst for both Niger’s and Africa’s energy transition as a whole. AEW 2021 is a key platform to place renewable energy developments at the forefront of the African energy agenda, directing critical investment towards this promising sector and accelerating growth continent wide,” continues Ayuk.

Additionally, Niger’s natural gas potential – estimated at 18.6 billion cubic meters – remains significantly unexploited and thus presents a valuable investment opportunity for international stakeholders. With oil comprising a predominant share of its energy mix, the government is looking towards diversification and is seeking foreign capital to do so. According to the International Monetary Fund, Niger is amongst the top 15 fastest growing economic in the world, and backed by a favorable legal framework which remains attractive for private investment and project promotion, continues to present lucrative investment opportunities for international financiers.

Accordingly, AEW 2021 represents the most suitable platform in which emerging sectors such as Niger can secure critical capital. Already, the event has received support and endorsements by both regional and international financiers, and with networking-focus the top of the agenda, AEW 2021 represents the premier energy event whereby deals and decisions regarding Africa’s energy future will be made.

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, please visit www.AEW2021.com or www.EnergyChamber.org and/or reach out directly to Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org.

For registration related enquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com.

For sales-related enquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com.

For media-related enquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com.

For speaker opportunity-related enquiries, please contact speakers@aew2021.com.

*African Energy Chamber

The African Energy Chamber (www.EnergyChamber.org) is proud to announce that H.E. Gϋnter Nooke, personal representative of the German Chancellor for Africa, will be attending and participating at African Energy Week (AEW) 2021. Representing a prominent figure in Germany-Africa relations, Nooke’s attendance is expected to drive a discussion around Africa’s green hydrogen potential and emerging projects, the move towards a continent-wide energy transition and the value of international energy partnerships.

According to a Focus on Hydrogen report by Clifford Chance, with rapidly improving technology and decreasing costs for fuel cells, green hydrogen is becoming a more appealing fuel alternative in Africa. Backed by Africa’s extensive renewable energy resources – the International Renewable Energy Agency estimates that renewable energy capacity in Africa could reach 310GW by 2030. The development of green hydrogen projects will not only address continent-wide energy demand, increasing energy security and contribute to domestic energy independence, but will provide an environmentally sustainable fuel alternative for years to come. Accordingly, green hydrogen represents the most ideal resource to catapult the continent to net-zero emissions by 2030. Additionally, the resource possesses the potential to reshape the African energy space, in which the establishment of a green hydrogen market will not only ensure a consistent and reliable domestic fuel supply, but significantly increase country-wide revenue through exports to international markets. Subsequently, the development of green hydrogen can drive socioeconomic growth and establish Africa as a global competitor.

“Green hydrogen is rapidly becoming the most suitable resource to expand energy access and drive socioeconomic growth in Africa, while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Germany-Africa partnerships will not only enable the rapid increase in green hydrogen developments aimed to reduce energy poverty continent-wide, but presents valuable export opportunities that will drive economic growth. By capitalizing on partnership opportunities with Germany, Africa can establish a competitive green hydrogen market,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC.

There has already been significant progress in green hydrogen developments across Africa with countries such as South Africa, Niger, Mali and Namibia, among others, redirecting a focus on the utilization of renewable energies through green hydrogen. Coupled with Germany’s recently implemented National Hydrogen Strategy in 2020 – in which the country is turning to international partnerships in a bid to increase green hydrogen imports and spur decarbonization globally – and Africa’s emerging green hydrogen market ­– there has been an increase in Germany-Africa partnership projects. Notably, the German development Bank KfW has initiated a $279-million program towards the development of green hydrogen projects in South Africa. Additionally, the H2Atlas project, spearheaded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, foresees the production of approximately 165,000TWh of green hydrogen annually in West Africa across several projects.

Nooke’s participation at AEW 2021 is expected to not only open a dialogue around these green hydrogen projects and more, but bridge the gap between African opportunities and German investments.

Additionally, Nooke’s participation will drive the conversation around large-scale renewable energy projects in Africa. As one of the world leaders in green power, and with its recent shift towards the African continent regarding Germany’s foreign policy and development agenda, the country is fully focused on expanding economic opportunities through increased participation in African renewable markets. Projects such as the Grand Inga Hydropower Project, a 42,000MW hydropower expansion project in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the 500MW Noor Solar Complex in Morocco, both demonstrate Africa’s vast renewable potential and the lucrative opportunities available for German investors. Nooke’s substantial experience and vast knowledge in both African and German markets will enable African and German stakeholders attending AEW 2021 the opportunity to establish meaningful partnerships, drive green hydrogen market growth, and address global climate concerns through the development of an environmentally sustainable resource.

With Africa’s role in the global energy transition, the expanding renewable energy market, and the value and potential of green hydrogen comprising key topics at AEW 2021, the event represents the ideal platform for networking and deal-making as Africa pursues an energy sector transformation. 

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, please visit www.AEW2021.com or www.EnergyChamber.org and/or reach out directly to Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com

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*African Energy Chamber

The Nigerian Senate has officially passed the long-awaited Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) on Thursday the 1^st of July 2021, after deliberation and input by both the executive and legislative arms of government. Having been revised on many occasions throughout the past thirteen years since it was first presented to the National Assembly in 2008, the PIB comprises a combination of 16 Nigerian petroleum laws that outline the framework to boost oil and gas output while enhancing the sectors attractiveness for international investment.

By ensuring an enabling environment for investors backed by a transparent and strengthened regulatory framework, the PIB will present significant investment opportunities for both regional and international stakeholders. At a time when the global energy sector is particularly competitive for foreign capital, the passing of the PIB serves to elevate Nigeria as an energy leader on the global stage and the upcoming African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 taking place in Cape Town on the 9^th-12^th of November will only enhance this trend.

“For 13 years, our oil and natural gas industry pushed and waited for this moment. Passing the Petroleum Industry Bill lays the foundation for a stronger, efficient and attractive energy industry in Nigeria.” Declared NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber

“What we must do, is make this legislation work for Nigerian companies and foreign companies in the energy sector. I believe that this Bill will make the Nigerian energy sector competitive again and you will see rig counts go up. Nigeria will out-innovate, out-produce, and out-compete those who counted out or bet against its the oil and natural gas industry. We will showcase the opportunities at Africa Energy Week in Cape Town” Concluded Ayuk.

By uniting both African global stakeholders in one exclusive networking event, AEW 2021 will be the place to explore post-PIB opportunities in Nigeria. H.E. Timipre Sylva, Nigeria’s Minister of Petroleum, has already confirmed his attendance at AEW 2021, and will lead a Nigerian delegation to AEW 2021 including executives from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation and the Department of Petroleum Resources. The passing of the PIB represents an historic moment in Nigeria’s energy sector, and AEW 2021, representing the only Africa-focused energy event taking place in Africa in 2021, serves to promote and enhance the significant opportunities that will be sure to follow..

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, please visit www.AEW2021.com or www.EnergyChamber.org and/or reach out directly to Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org.

For registration related enquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com.

For sales-related enquiries, please contact sales@aew2021.com.

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*African Energy Chamber

H.E. Minister Sylva will lead a Nigerian delegation, including executives from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation and the Department of Petroleum Resources.

H.E. Chief Timipre Sylva, Minister of State for Petroleum of Nigeria, has confirmed his attendance at African Energy Week (AEW) 2021, on the back of several VIP confirmations; Under the leadership of H.E. Minister Sylva, Sub-Saharan Africa’s leading oil producer is driving Africa’s energy future via large-scale gas development plans and progressive policy reform; H.E. Minister Sylva will lead a Nigerian delegation, including executives from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) to AEW 2021.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) is honored to confirm the attendance of Nigeria’s Minister of State for Petroleum H.E. Chief Timipre Sylva at African Energy Week (AEW) 2021. H.E. Minister Sylva will lead a Nigerian delegation that includes executives from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) to AEW 2021, taking place on November 9-12 in Cape Town, South Africa. The participation of sub-Saharan Africa’s largest oil-producing economy speaks to the caliber and magnitude of the event, and follows a series of VIP confirmations in the past week alone.

Since his appointment in August 2019, H.E. Minister Sylva has played a pivotal role in not only facilitating investments into the Nigerian oil and gas sector, but also positioning natural gas at the forefront of the country’s energy agenda. Most recently, the Federal Government launched its ‘Decade of Gas’ initiative, under the theme ‘Towards a gas-powered economy by 2030,’ in conjunction with its National Gas Expansion Program, aimed at bolstering gas development for domestic use and industrialization.

Nigeria’s ‘Decade of Gas’ initiative succeeds the 2020 ‘Year of Gas’ declaration, which launched a range of projects, including the $2.8 billion, 614Km Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) pipeline connecting the eastern, western, and northern regions of the country, as well as the construction of $10 billion Nigeria LNG Train 7.

The Federal Government has also reaffirmed its stance on funding for gas and fossil fuel projects in Nigeria and has highlighted that funding for these crucial projects should be sustained during the global transition to net-zero emissions.

Under H.E. Minister Sylva’s leadership, Nigeria is poised to exploit the country’s enormous gas resource potential ­– which ranks among the 10 largest worldwide and is estimated to be in excess of 600 trillion cubic feet (tcf).

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) is set to be passed by in July. This important legislation seeks to ensure an increased level of transparency and accountability in the sector and overhaul the Nigerian oil industry, while offering new fiscal incentives to investors and while restructuring the way energy projects in Africa’s largest crude producer are operated and funded.

“Nigeria intends to advocate for an Africa-centric approach to the clean energy transition – one that is able to meet our developmental goals and eliminate energy poverty, while achieving substantial reductions in global carbon emissions,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, the AEC. “The monetization of gas resources – of which Nigeria holds 600 trillion cubic feet – will be a critical instrument for diversifying our national economies, generating regional income, boosting electrification rates and curbing gas flaring practices. AEW 2021 is a key platform to exchange best practices on transitional strategies, as well as showcase the contributions that Nigeria has made – and has yet to make – to a more sustainable future.”  

Moreover, the government expects additional marginal field production to begin next year, following its second marginal field bid round which was hosted by the DPR in 2020, whereby 591 companies applied to win 57 oil fields located onshore and offshore. The new activity is expected to generate revenue of $600 million.

“Minister Sylva has been a long-time champion of Nigerian energy development, and there can be no discussion of Africa’s energy future without the presence of its leading economic and energy powerhouse. From advancing the Petroleum Industry Bill to its final stages, to successfully launching Nigeria’s first marginal fields bid round in nearly two decades, Minister Sylva has been resolute in his efforts to revitalize the oil and gas industry and unwavering in his support of a pro-African energy narrative,” continued Ayuk.  

With key topics including making energy poverty history before 2030 and the future of the African oil and gas industry ­– the four-day AEW 2021 event will define and promote the African energy agenda through a series of elite networking events, innovative exhibitions, and one-on-one deal-making.

Since its launch two weeks ago, AEW 2021 has gained confirmation of attendance from an impressive line-up of government officials, top executives and industry leaders across the African energy value chain, including two of the top oil producers on the continent ­– as it pioneers a reputation for promoting Africa as the destination for African-focused events and elevating African voices within the energy transition.

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, please visit www.AEW2021.com or www.EnergyChamber.org  and/or reach out directly to Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries, please contact registration@aew2021.com  

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For media-related enquiries, please contact media@aew2021.com 

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*Source African Energy Chamber

Key discussion points will include Nigeria’s role in Africa’s energy transition, the potential of natural gas, the value of local content, and intra-African energy trade.

As a form of prelude to African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 taking place in Cape Town on the 9^th12th of November, the African Energy Chamber’s (AEC) (www.EnergyChamber.org) Executive Chairman, NJ Ayuk, will be visiting Nigeria on the 5^th-10^th July 2021; Focused on supporting the country in its efforts to pass the Petroleum Industry Bill and market the country as a competitive investment destination, Ayuk will be conducting high-level meetings with industry leaders, opening a dialogue on the value of AEW 2021; Key discussion points will include Nigeria’s role in Africa’s energy transition, the potential of natural gas, the value of local content, and intra-African energy trade.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) is reaffirming its commitment to Nigeria with a planned visit by AEC Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk on the 5^th-10^th July 2021. With the goal of supporting Nigeria in its efforts to pass the Petroleum Industry Bill, market the country as a premier investment destination, and promote African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 as the ideal networking platform for Nigerian oil and gas companies, Ayuk is prioritizing pan-African partnerships and continent-wide energy growth.

Committed to African-focused dialogue, Ayuk’s visit will comprise private meetings with both government representatives, National Oil Company leaders, and private sector executives. Additionally, the AEC will host a cocktail event for the Nigerian business community, prioritizing networking and partnerships as a form of prelude to AEW 2021.

“Nigeria represents a particularly lucrative market whereby investment and development should be directed. The AEC is a firm believer in partnerships and collaboration among Africa’s energy sector and is, therefore, reaffirming a commitment to Nigerian people and Nigerian energy,” stated Ayuk. 

With over 187 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, Nigeria has the potential to drive energy accessibility and security, boost job creation and industrialization, and spur socioeconomic growth across the entire region. In response to growing opportunities within the natural gas sector, Ayuk – accompanied by Florival Mucave, Executive Chairman of the Mozambique Oil and Gas Chamber – will be visiting various gas projects and developmental sites across the country. By focusing on productive dialogue regarding effective gas monetization and utilization, both Ayuk and Mucave aim to establish long-term partnerships with Nigerian companies and leaders in a bid to fast-track energy sector growth and poverty alleviation across the entire continent.

“With amazing talent and an exceptional skills set, and by fostering true partnerships with the right companies, Nigerian oil and gas companies can inspire other African companies in the energy sector to grow. It is through these partnerships where we will see increased energy independence and private sector growth across Africa,” continued Ayuk.

Throughout the visit, Ayuk will drive a discussion around the African energy transition, reaffirming the value of inclusivity and equity within Nigeria’s just transition. Recognizing the different economic realities both globally and across Africa, Ayuk is focused on collaborative dialogue with regards to Nigeria’s proposed strategies to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

Additionally, the visit will comprise key discussion topics such as African local content and intra-African trade – with particular focus on trade between African nations. Ayuk’s visit is intended to not only demonstrate the AEC’s ongoing support, but to help drive investment and development in one of Africa’s most esteemed oil and gas markets. By prioritizing private sector intra-African expansion, and motivating increased participation by Nigerian companies in the wider African energy market, Ayuk is emphasizing the role of the private sector in fast-tracking continent-wide energy success.

With the launch of AEW 2021 in Cape Town on the 9^th-12^th of November 2021, Ayuk is committed to uniting global investors with Nigerian oil and gas opportunities. By focusing on networking and partnerships, and presenting a platform whereby global stakeholders and industry leaders can make decisions regarding Africa’s energy future, AEW 2021 recognizes Nigeria’s role and significant contribution to Africa’s energy sector success. 

For more information about Africa’s premier energy event, visit www.AEW2021.com or EnergyChamber.org and/or email Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries contact registration@aew2021.com  

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For media related enquires contact media@aew2021.com 

For speaker opportunity related enquires contact speakers@aew2021.com

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) is proud to announce the attendance and participation of entrepreneurship expert Akinwole Omoboriowo II at the first-ever African Energy Week (AEW) 2021. With over 20 years of experience in the oil, gas and power sectors in Africa, Omoboriowo is not only an industry specialist, but a valuable contributor to both AEW 2021 and the African energy sector at large.

Currently the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Genesis Energy Group and the Chairman Board of Directors of GEL Utility – the largest licensed commercial off-grid company in Nigeria – Omoboriowo brings a unique set of skills and valuable knowledge to AEW 2021. Additionally, Omoboriowo is an AEC advisory board member, serving on both the regulatory affairs and investment committees and assisting the AEC in pushing its mission across the continent. Through his extensive work in the West African energy sector and beyond, Omoboriowo provides an in-depth understanding of African energy and African people.

“Akinwole Omoboriowo II is a key figure and valuable participant in AEW 2021. As the continent unites and engages in dialogue surrounding Africa’s energy future, Omoboriowo will provide an intrinsic view of Africa’s energy sector needs and potential,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC,” stated Omoboriowo.

With increasing commitments and participation confirmations being made by top executives, industry leaders, and influential stakeholders across the entire African energy sector value chain, AEW 2021 is on track to become Africa’s premier pan-African energy conference.

For more information about this transformative event, visit www.AEW2021.com or www.EnergyChamber.org and/or email Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries contact registration@aew2021.com

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*African Energy Chamber

Confirmed attendance by the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy, Petrosen and COS-Petrogaz reaffirm regional cooperation and partnerships.

A strong delegation of industry leaders from Senegal have committed to the African Energy Chamber’s (AEC) first-ever African Energy Week (AEW) 2021, to be held in Cape Town on the 9th-12th November 2021. With official attendance confirmations made by H.E. Aissatou Sophie Gladima, Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Senegal’s national oil company, Petrosen, and the strategic organizational committee COS-Petrogaz, AEW 2021 is expected to drive industry growth, built against a backdrop of regional cooperation and partnerships.

Commitment from one of Africa’s leading oil and gas nations not only demonstrates the value of AEW 2021 as an Africa-focused, Africa-held event, but reiterates how regional partnerships can accelerate energy sector growth and success across the entire continent. Senegal’s commitment to AEW 2021 is particularly valuable, as Africa’s energy transition and the role of natural gas comprise key areas of focus and predominant themes at the event.

“AEW 2021 represents the ideal platform for resource-rich countries, such as Senegal, to meet with investors, engage with stakeholders, and accelerate domestic energy plans. Senegal’s commitment to AEW 2021 is particularly valuable for us and we look forward to working with them in promoting investment, establishing regional ties, and fast-tracking Africa’s energy success,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, the AEC.

Under the auspices of H.E. President Macky Sall, Senegal has emerged as a leader in the African energy transition. With the discovery of approximately 450 billion cubic meters of natural gas in 2016, and associated large-scale gas developments making headway across the country – such as the $4.8-billion Greater Tortue Ahmeyim project led by BP and Kosmos Energy – Senegal is accelerating natural gas monetization and development. What’s more, recognizing the potential of natural gas as a transitional resource, and by integrating natural gas with large-scale renewable energy developments, Senegal has been proactive in facilitating an energy transition, establishing regional energy security and accelerating socioeconomic growth in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

What makes Senegal a force to be reckoned with, however, is not only its impressive natural gas reserves, but the government’s recognition of the value of energy mix diversification and energy sector unification in achieving socio economic objectives. Specifically, the country considers energy as a whole and each resource represents a bankable opportunity. Supported by the country’s Emerging Senegal Plan – a new development model that constitutes a benchmark for economic and social policy in the medium and long term – Senegal’s progress and development can be considered a model for other resource-rich African countries.

Senegal has also emerged as a trend-setter regarding regional cooperation and collaboration. Through large-scale projects such as the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim gas project, co-developed with Mauritania, and cross-border transmission agreements, Senegal unites regional players with the goal of expanding cross-border business and collaboration. Attendance and participation at AEW 2021 will only further establish and accelerate regional ties, enabling increased cooperation within the energy sector continent-wide.

Join Senegal and other African oil and gas leaders in advancing Africa’s energy sector at AEW 2021 in Cape Town. As the only Africa-focused energy event to be taking place in Africa this year, the event represents the unique opportunity to engage in dialogue concerning Africa’s energy future.

For more information about this transformative event, visit www.aew2021.com or energychamber.org and/or email Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries contact registration@aew2021.com  

For sales related enquires contact sales@aew2021.com 

For media related enquires contact media@aew2021.com 

For speaker opportunity related enquires contact speakers@aew2021.com

By Duggan Flanakin*

It was quite a shock to Africa Energy Chamber Executive Director NJ Ayuk – and an even bigger shock to the Chamber – that the London-based Hyve group decided to move the annual Africa Oil Week from Cape Town, South Africa to Dubai. It was such a shock that the AEC shortly afterward announced it was sponsoring Africa Energy Week on the same weekend (November 8-12) as the (Out of) Africa Oil Week.

Mr. Ayuk works hard to ensure the interests of African companies and citizens in African energy ventures are widely recognized. He calls the dueling conferences a major confrontation between “Cancel Fossil Fuels” (Dubai) and “Protect our Oil and Gas Industry” (Cape Town).

The Cancel Fossil Fuels movement is currently being led by the International Energy Agency, which recently declared that all oil and gas exploration must cease immediately in order to achieve compliance with the Paris climate accords – and save the world from the mythical fires of hell on Earth.

The Biden-Harris Administration, the European Union, many Western banks and now even Western insurance companies claim the world faces a “climate catastrophe” if we “cling” to fossil fuels. They are lying, of course. There is no actual catastrophe on the horizon. And they know it!

The hysteria in the press (here, here, here and here, for example) is exceeded only by the screeching of Hollywood actors like Leonardo di Caprio and Don Cheadle. Newspaper reports tout compliance with Paris as a litmus test (one of many) for determining one’s humanity.

The hoopla has been so successful that a recent Pew Research Center poll found fully a third of Americans now favor a full-on extinction of fossil fuels and engines that run on them. Only 64% of Americans prefer keeping fossil fuels in the energy mix. This in a nation with 270 million gasoline-powered vehicles and who knows how many gas furnaces and water heaters!

Hardly a day goes by without some entity virtue-signaling disdain for fossil fuels. The media imply that “no fossil fuels by 2050” is “the future.” They are dead wrong. Litigation attorney Francis Menton hit the nail on the head in a recent real-world post: “The current legal onslaught is unlikely to limit world oil production significantly.”

Menton acknowledges the “multi-front legal onslaught” against the “major” oil producing companies (not countries!). The war is not confined to lawsuits. Other weapons include new laws, regulatory initiatives and proxy contests. However, as Menton demonstrates, the oft-targeted “major” Western oil companies (ExxonMobil, Chevron, Shell, BP, Conoco Phillips) “are just not that big a part of world production.”

ExxonMobil, the largest of the group, was ranked just sixth, and Chevron was the only other “major” in the top ten. The top five are Saudi Aramco, Rosneft (Russia), Kuwait Petroleum, National Iranian Oil Company and China National. When is the last time you saw legal actions, major demonstrations or even public demands that those oil giants shut down?

Despite all the official kowtowing to Paris and even the IEA, not even all Western nations have any real intention of decarbonizing. Norway, for example, has openly stated its intention to increase its investments in offshore oil and gas operations in 2021. Of course, in an official “woke” statement, the Norwegian government promised to facilitate long-term economic growth in the petroleum industry “within the framework of our climate policy and our commitments under the Paris Agreement.” Huh?

Meanwhile, the Norwegian Oil and Gas Association bluntly stated that its members do not share “the assumption that OPEC members alone should account for more than half of oil and gas production for the world market in a 2050 perspective.” The reasons are obvious.

First, the result would be soaring energy prices and significant threats to global energy supplies. Second, Norway would lose revenues and jobs associated with industries like oil and gas, carbon capture and storage, hydrogen and recovery of seabed minerals.

Africans like Ayuk share similar views: that their countries cannot afford to throw away their best chances for economic growth, full employment, infrastructure development and modern living standards – to satisfy the whims and demands of wealthy Europeans.

To underscore their determination, Canada-based Reconnaissance Energy Africa is on the verge of turning the Namibian part of the Kavango Basin into a world oil capital. Exploratory drilling within the 8.5-million-acre Kavango Basin has confirmed that “Namibia is endowed with an active onshore petroleum basin,” says Namibia Minister of Mines and Energy Tom Alweendo. The country hopes oil and gas development will bring economic stimulus, increased infrastructure, access to potable water, and investments in environmental protection and wildlife conservation.

Just last year the Russian firm Rosgeo signed an agreement with Equatorial Guinea for an historic geological mapping project – the first step toward developing a domestic oil and gas industry and finding other mineral resources. (Guinea withdrew from Africa Oil Week in favor of Africa Energy Week.)

An earlier report identified 70 crude oil and natural gas projects planned for startup in sub-Saharan Africa between 2019 and 2025; it also said Nigeria would be producing over a million barrels of oil per day (BOPD) by 2025.

Two of Africa’s five largest oil and gas projects are in Mozambique: the state-of-the-art Mozambique liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility, which plans to tap into an estimated 75 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of recoverable offshore natural gas, and the 85-tcf Area 4 project, which includes the Coral and Rovuma LNG facilities.

BP just awarded a billion-dollar contract for construction of phase 1 of the 15-tcf Tortue Ahmeyim offshore LNG project, which benefits Mauritania and Senegal. Shell is planning to begin construction in 2022 of a $30 billion LNG liquefaction plant in Tanzania, which has over 57 tcf of recoverable natural gas reserves. And the East African Crude Oil Pipeline intends to transport crude oil from Kabaale-Hoima in Uganda to the Tanzanian port of Tanga.

None of these energy-rich African nations is eager to submit to IEA demands, which seem to envision only existing OPEC nations as future producers and refiners. This, it appears, is the dividing line between Africa Oil Week and the new Africa Energy Week.

A leading theme of Africa Oil Week in Dubai is “Africa’s energy transition efforts toward a cleaner environment.” The Dubai event asks, “As the pressure mounts for regions, countries and companies to meet the Paris Agreement targets on eliminating carbon emissions, where does the continent stand?” (Resistance. Is. Futile. attendees want Africans to believe.)

Africa Energy Week has already garnered an impressive list of speakers, sponsors and attendees. It has a much different theme – and no lack of chutzpah. “Replacing Africa Oil Week” is the goal. The creators say their event “seeks to unite industry stakeholders, international speakers, and movers and shakers from the African oil and gas sector … to define and promote the African energy agenda through development, deal-making and private sector participation.”

Key topics at Africa Energy Week include making energy poverty history before 2030, the future of the African oil and gas industry, the role of women in energy, and opportunities and financial challenges. The AEC says this Africa-focused, in-person energy event is fully devoted to promoting African development and growth through African-held programs.

Ayuk says that the AOW’s move to Dubai provided an opportunity for Africans to stand up for African values. “We are going to fight for our future. We are not going to give in to this crowd. I am not worried about the attacks. We are going to stand for what is right.”

*Duggan Flanakin, director of policy research for the Committee For A Constructive Tomorrow. 

H.E. Yury Sentyurin, the third Secretary General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), has confirmed his attendance at the first-ever African Energy Week (AEW) 2021. His presence at and commitment towards this transformative event ushers in a new wave of industry support and further reaffirms the value and success of AEW 2021 (www.AEW2021.com).

With extensive government and sectoral experience in international markets, H.E. Sentyurin’s attendance at AEW 2021 will bridge the gap between global industry players and African markets. By fully endorsing AEW 2021, and actively participating in the conference, the Secretary General, among other high-level industry executives, are contributing to the event’s success, further reiterating that AEW 2021 is the African energy event in 2021.

In less than two weeks after the initial announcement, AEW 2021 has already garnered significant support from major oil ministers, OPEC Secretary General Mohammad Barkindo, and global energy stakeholders representing the entire energy value chain. Confirmed attendance by H.E. Diamantino Azevedo, Minister of Mineral Resources and Petroleum, Angola; H.E. Bruno Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons, the Republic of Congo; and H.E. Gabriel Obiang Lima, Minister of Mines, Industry and Energy, Equatorial Guinea, reiterate the value of this pan-African event.

“The level of support we have received thus far only further demonstrates the value of this fundamental event. With only a few months to go until AEW 2021, we are fully expectant that more high-level commitments will be made, unwavering support will be given, and attendance guaranteed by the people driving Africa’s energy success,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, the AEC.

AEW 2021 is the only pan-African energy event occurring in Africa in 2021. Taking place at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town on the 9th-12th November 2021, the event is proud to host both regional and international delegates in a comprehensive and interactive event format. AEW 2021 represents a hybrid platform where decisions regarding Africa’s energy future will be made.

For more information about this transformative event, visit www.AEW2021.com or EnergyChamber.org and/or email Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org 

For registration related enquiries contact registration@aew2021.com 
For sales related enquires contact sales@aew2021.com 
For media related enquires contact media@aew2021.com 
For speaker opportunity related enquires contact speakers@aew2021.com

By focusing on African innovation, new technology, free-market growth, local content and upstream and midstream oil and gas, AEW 2021 is officially the benchmark for African energy events.

Taking place in Cape Town, African Energy Week 2021 ensures Africa-focused events benefit African tourism and associated sectors.

African concerts, sporting events, and even oil and gas events are beginning to take shape in 2021 after a significant period of inactivity due to COVID-19 restrictions. African cities including Cape Town in South Africa and Dakar in Senegal have created amazing hospitality and tourism industries that have brought in millions of visitors each year and fueled millions of dollars in economic output. While most foreign event firms like London based Hyve group/Africa Oil Week have deserted the continent for ‘greener pastures’ elsewhere, Africans and Africa-focused energy events are leading the way and cities like Cape Town stand to benefit.

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic, and the subsequent lockdown regulations implemented worldwide, have caused unmitigated impacts on the global economy which have had a major impact on the tourism and events industry. Relying heavily on international travel and gatherings, tourism and event restrictions have led to significant revenue losses and industry-wide employment risks. However, as countries reduce measures and economies begin to open up again, a unique and strategic opportunity has emerged in which the African energy sector, in particular oil and gas events, can revive the tourism and events industry, breathing life into African markets.

South Africa is considered one of the top tourism destinations in Africa, ranking sixth out of the world’s seventeen megadiverse countries. Tourism’s contribution to Gross Domestic Product in 2019 was 8.7%, demonstrating an average annual increase of 1.21% since 2000. One of the primary tourism sub-sectors in South Africa is the events industry, with the country ranked number one in Africa in the International Congress and Convention Association in the World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report. According to Research and Markets Event Management in the South Africa 2020 report, in 2019, 11.4% of foreign tourism was attributed to the events industry with an estimated one million delegates hosted annually. In addition to attracting tourists to South Africa, the events industry is responsible for job creation, business expansion, investment, and increasing revenue across multiple support service sectors such as the food, health and infrastructure industries.

However, when COVID-19 hit, the tourism and events industry experienced significant impacts including loss of income, job redundancies – in April 2020 11% of tourism businesses made some or all of their staff redundant ­– as well as tax losses for the economy. According to the Tourism 2020 report released by Statistics South Africa, foreign arrivals dropped by 71% from over 15.8 million in 2019 to less than 5 million in 2020. Additionally, the business events sub-sector saw international delegate arrivals decline by 78%.

Despite these impacts, the easing of restrictions in South Africa, coupled with expected COVID-19 case declines in summer, has created the unique opportunity for oil and gas events like the upcoming African Energy Week (AEW) 2021 to revive South Africa’s tourism industry. AEW 2021, an interactive networking event that unites global energy stakeholders on the 9th-12th of November, is expected to set a new standard for Africa-focused conferences, presenting a multi-platform, community-oriented approach to energy events. Ironically, at a time when the oil and gas industry has taken a strong move towards the energy transition, an oil and gas event has the potential to revive a myriad of sectors in Africa.

What makes AEW 2021 unique is its location. AEW 2021 will take place at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town – an economic and cultural hub comprising five districts – and will utilize conference centers, art galleries, museums, restaurants and even a golf course in its comprehensive event program. This location enables AEW 2021 to not only attract both regional and international tourists to one of the continent’s most exciting socio-cultural hubs, but ensures that the event’s associated commercial benefits extend into multiple sectors. The event demonstrates how Africans, and the oil and gas sector, are rallying together to give the Waterfront, and South Africa’s tourism industry, its biggest commercial boost since the start of the pandemic. Unlike other Africa-focused yet internationally hosted energy events, AEW 2021 encapsulates comradery, job creation, local business participation and African tourism revival. By focusing on African innovation, new technology, free-market growth, local content and upstream and midstream oil and gas, AEW 2021 is officially the benchmark for African energy events. Accordingly, the African Energy Chamber is reaffirming its commitment to African people, African energy, and African business by focusing on regional and multi-sectoral socioeconomic growth and recovery.

What AEW 2021 will accomplish will pave the way for other energy events. The event’s success is already being noted with unprecedented support declared by OPEC Secretary General, Mohammed Barkindo, as well as H.E. Diamantino Pedro Azevedo, Minister of Mineral Resources and Petroleum, Angola; H.E. Gabriel Mbaga Obiang Lima, Minister of Mines and Hydrocarbons, Equatorial Guinea and H.E Bruno Jean Richard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons, Republic of Congo. Attendance by these prestigious industry leaders, among others, will not only drive multi-industry growth and development, but will establish Africa as the destination for Africa-focused energy events. 

Additionally, AEW 2021 is ensuring all COVID-19 regulations are adhered to in order to present a safe and productive event. The event’s strategic design, comprising the utilization of multiple venues over a four-day period, not only complies with COVID-19 social gathering limitations, but ensures that multiple venues and event companies benefit from this one event. With on-the-day rapid testing facilities and sanitizing stations, AEW 2021 is demonstrating that Africa-focused events can and should take place in Africa in 2021.

For more information about this transformative event, visit www.aew2021.com or www.energychamber.org and/or email Amina Williams at amina.williams@energychamber.org

For registration related enquiries contact registration@aew2021.com

For sales related enquires contact sales@aew2021.com

For media related enquires contact media@aew2021.com

For general enquiries contact news@energychamber.org

*African Energy Chamber