Greetings to the readers of PAN African Visions,
I’m delighted to share exciting news from the African energy sector. The African Energy Chamber’s Invest in African Energy Forum, held in Paris, has commenced with the aim of amplifying European investments in African energy projects and establishing strong bilateral connections between the two regions.
The forum’s opening ceremony saw industry experts from across the African and European energy sectors come together to discuss opportunities and forge partnerships. Distinguished speakers included Hon. Tom Alweendo, Minister of Mines and Energy of Namibia; H.E. Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons of Congo; H.E. Didier Budimbu Ntubuanga, Minister of Hydrocarbons of the Democratic Republic of Congo; NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber; Per Magnus Nysveen, Senior Partner & Chief Analyst at Rystad Energy; Benoît de la Fouchardière, CEO of Perenco; and Eric Melet, CEO of Rail & Logistics Solutions at Africa Global Logistics.
NJ Ayuk, in his opening remarks, emphasized the importance of driving deals, approving projects, creating opportunities, and driving investment. He called for action and collaboration, stating, “Sign baby sign.”
H.E. Minister Itoua highlighted Congo’s progress in gas monetization, expressing the country’s commitment to utilizing its gas resources. He mentioned a project to produce gas, with the first exportation of liquefied natural gas (LNG) expected in Q4 2023. The Minister emphasized the significance of gas as the best transition energy and mentioned upcoming institutional frameworks and campaigns to attract investments.
H.E. Minister Ntubuanga emphasized the immense potential of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the hydrocarbon sector. He mentioned confirmed gas blocks in Lake Kivu and ongoing efforts to develop contracts and legal incentives to attract investment.
The event highlighted the increasing role of European players in financing and developing African hydrocarbons as the continent strives to unlock its full potential. Hon. Alweendo acknowledged the importance of understanding investors’ perspectives and creating a conducive environment for investment. He invited attendees to the upcoming conference in October, which will explain the significance of investing in Africa.
As Africa’s energy sector undergoes a rapid transformation, logistics plays a crucial role in supporting energy availability and connectivity. Eric Melet emphasized the mission of the logistics industry to provide tailored solutions, improve connectivity, and contribute to creating a virtual logistics ecosystem.
With these remarks, the forum officially commenced, fostering connections and partnerships between European and African counterparts.
Looking ahead, the African Energy Week 2023 conference in Cape Town from October 16-20 will continue this momentum. The event will prioritize energy poverty eradication, sustainable development, and a free-market approach, under the theme “The African Energy Renaissance.”
Stay tuned for more updates on the transformative progress and opportunities in the African energy sector.
Thank you for reading, and please feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below.
Best regards,
Ajong Mbapndah
