Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
TRIPOLI, Libya, January 19, 2025/APO Group/ —
Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) and international energy companies TotalEnergies, Eni, OMV, Repsol and Nabors outlined key exploration milestones and strategies to advance oil and gas production in Libya at the Libya Energy & Economic Summit 2025 on January 18.
Among the key developments highlighted were TotalEnergies’ recent onshore exploration project and promising exploration opportunities in the Sirte and Murzuq basins.
“With 40% of Africa’s reserves, Libya remains largely untapped,” said Julien Pouget, Senior Vice President for the Middle East and North Africa at TotalEnergies. Pouget shared TotalEnergies’ plans for 2025, including the completion of an onshore exploration project and new exploration in the Waha and Sharara fields. “We expect results next week,” he added.
Luca Vignati, Upstream Director at Eni, echoed optimism for Libya’s potential and outlined the company’s ongoing investment initiatives in the country. “We are launching three exploration plays – shallow, deepwater and ultra-deep offshore. No other country offers such opportunities,” Vignati stated. He also highlighted the company’s investments in gas projects, including over $10 billion for the Greenstream gas pipeline and a CO2 capture and storage plant in Mellitah.
Repsol affirmed its commitment to advancing exploration in Libya, focusing on overcoming industry challenges and achieving significant production milestones.
“Over the past decade, Libya has made remarkable efforts to fight natural field decline and encourage exploration,” said Francisco Gea, Executive Managing Director, Exploration & Production at Repsol. “We have reached 340,000 barrels per day. The two million target is within reach, and as international companies, we have the responsibility to bring capacity and technology.”
“Innovation is key to maximizing production and accelerating exploration. By deploying cutting-edge solutions, Nabors can enhance efficiency, reduce costs and ensure safer operations,” added Travis Purvis, Senior Vice President of Global Drilling Operations at Nabors.
Bashir Garea, Technical Advisor to the Chairman of the NOC, highlighted the country’s immense oil and gas potential. “We have 48 billion barrels of discovered but unexploited oil, with total potential estimated at 90 billion barrels, especially offshore,” he said. He also pointed to Libya’s sizable gas reserves, noting, “Libya has 122 trillion cubic feet of gas yet to be developed. To unlock this potential, we need more investors and new technology, particularly for brownfield revitalization.”
“Our strategy spans the entire value chain. Strengthening infrastructure is essential to maximizing production and efficiency,” said Hisham Najah, General Manager of the NOC’s Investment & Owners Committees Department.
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber and session moderator, underlined Libya as a prime destination for foreign investment: “Libya is at the cusp of a new energy era. The time for bold investments and strategic partnerships is now.”
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
TRIPOLI, Libya, January 19, 2025/APO Group/ —
Global oil and gas drilling contractor Nabors has announced it will add a third drilling rig to the Waha oil field in Libya’s Sirte Basin. Expected to start operation in the coming weeks, the rig adds to the company’s current fleet of two rigs operating on the field.
The announcement was made by Nabors Vice President of Eastern Hemisphere Operations Tyson Seeliger during a U.S.-Libya Roundtable – Advancing Collaboration Between Libya and the U.S. in Energy Sector – at this year’s Libya Energy & Economic Summit 2025.
“We hope to start putting boots on the ground,” Seeliger stated, adding, “Right now, we have two drilling rigs in Waha, with the third about to start and we look forward to what’s coming in the future.”
Meanwhile, the Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy of Libya Jeremy Berndt announced that the U.S. is coming closer to opening an embassy in Tripoli. The U.S. embassy to Libya – based in Tunis, Tunisia – has been working with the U.S. State Department and government, as well as the Libyan government, to evaluate potential properties in Libya’s capital.
“We’ve been working steadily to increase our visits and I’m really proud of the work our team has done and the work of the State Department and U.S. government,” Berndt stated, adding, “We took the important step last month to sign leases for properties to open a new embassy and in the coming months we hope our work plan will allow us to become fully operational in Libya.”
Meanwhile, Executive Director of the U.S.-Libya Business Association Lydia Jabs, emphasized the U.S’ support for Libya, highlighting Libya’s role as a key partner in driving energy growth in the region and across the globe.
“I expect the next administration will see Libya as a key partner in global energy security and we hope to see continued support with our partners in the country,” Jabs stated.
Vice President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Libya Ahmed Al-Ghazali encouraged U.S. companies to enter the country and partner with local companies. He emphasized the transfer of technology and knowledge as a requisite for Libyan companies to drive socioeconomic development, driven by a robust energy sector.
Through its partnership with TotalEnergies, energy supermajor ConocoPhillips has been operating in Libya for decades and boasts a significant portfolio of energy projects in the country. As such, ConocoPhillips President for Libya Dag Sanner highlighted that the company is currently in discussions with the Libya’s parastatal National Oil Corporation (NOC) to ensure further investments in the oil and gas sector in the coming years.
Last year, the energy majors – partners in the Waha oil field – requested extending the validity of contracts signed with the NOC to 2046 while increasing their profit margin in the field from 6.5% to 13%.
The roundtable also featured the participation of global technology company SLB, which announced its ambition to increase oil production in the country, contributing to the NOC’s stated goal of increasing output to 2 million barrels of oil per day by 2027.
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
TRIPOLI, Libya, January 19, 2025/APO Group/ —
Libya is setting its sights on boosting oil production to 2 million barrels per day (bpd) within the next two to three years, with brownfield development and local investment identified as critical drivers of this growth. Speaking at the Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) in Tripoli on Saturday, Minister of Oil and Gas Dr. Khalifa Abdulsadek outlined the country’s strategy to reach 1.6 million bpd by year-end and laid the groundwork for longer-term growth.
“There are massive opportunities here, massive fields that have been discovered, but a lot of fields have fallen between the cracks,” stated Minister Abdulsadek during the Ministerial Panel, Global Energy Alliance – Uniting for a Secure and Sustainable Energy Future. “We want to make sure local oil companies take part. We also want to leverage the upcoming licensing round to support our planned growth in the oil sector.”
The minister’s remarks were complemented by a strong call for international participation in Libya’s upcoming licensing round, signaling the government’s commitment to fostering collaboration and maximizing the potential of its energy sector.
Highlighting Libya’s vast natural gas potential – with reserves of 1.5 trillion cubic meters – Mohamed Hamel, Secretary General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum, stressed the need for enhanced investment in gas projects. He pointed to ongoing initiatives like the $600 million El Sharara refinery as opportunities to stimulate economic diversification.
“Natural gas is available,” Hamel stated, adding, “It is the greenest of hydrocarbons and we see natural gas continuing to grow until 2050.”
The panel also tackled the global energy transition, emphasizing Africa’s unique challenges and the need for the continent to harness its resources to achieve energy security. Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, Secretary General of the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO), underscored the critical need for finance, technology and reliable markets to drive progress.
“At APPO, we have noted three specific challenges for the African continent. Finance, technology and reliable markets,” he stated, questioning whether Africa can continue to depend on external forces to develop its resources.
As one of Africa’s top oil producers, Libya holds an estimated 48 billion barrels of proven oil reserves. The country’s efforts to expand production, attract investment and drive innovation are central to the discussions at LEES 2025. Endorsed by the Ministry of Oil and Gas and National Oil Corporation, the summit has established itself as the leading platform for driving Libya’s energy transformation and exploring its impact on global markets.
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
TRIPOLI, Libya, January 19, 2025/APO Group/ —
The third edition of the Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) has officially opened, delivering a powerful call for investment to bolster the country’s oil and gas sector. With a goal of reaching 1.6 million barrels per day (bpd) by the end of the year, the summit highlighted Libya’s commitment to stabilizing its energy industry, fostering international partnerships and advancing regulatory and sustainability initiatives.
The summit was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of Libya, Abdulhamid Al-Dbeibeh, who highlighted the nation’s achievements and ambitions: “We started in 2021 with 800,000 bpd. As of January 2025, Libya has achieved 1.4 million bpd, reflecting our dedication to ensuring stability in the oil and gas industry. The government is eager to reinvest sector revenues into further improvements, aiming to reach 1.6 million bpd.”
He also emphasized the government’s broader energy vision, stating, “Our commitment extends beyond hydrocarbons to include environmental initiatives and decarbonization efforts, such as planting one million trees.”
In a keynote address, Dr. Khalifa Abdulsadek, Minister of Oil & Gas of Libya, laid out the government’s strategic roadmap for revitalizing the national hydrocarbon sector. “Libya, with its strategic position and abundant resources, has the potential to be a leader in global energy development. To reduce carbon emissions and increase gas exports, we are strengthening and expanding international partnerships,” he remarked.
Building on this momentum, Massoud M. Suleman, Acting Chairman of Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC), outlined the company’s ambitious strategy to enhance production, attract investment and drive innovation in the sector. “After reaching 1.4 million bpd, we have integrated cutting-edge technologies to drive our vision forward. This progress has facilitated the return of international airlines to Libya and strengthened our partnerships with foreign investors. A thriving energy sector has created a favorable business environment, enabling us to collaborate effectively with contractors and attract new partners,” said Suleman.
He further noted that the NOC is undergoing structural reforms to align with long-term sector goals. “For the second consecutive year, we are working with Deloitte to enhance transparency and unlock further opportunities in oil and gas. Our strategy is meticulous – not only focusing on oil and gas extraction, but also incorporating renewable energy projects to help us achieve our net-zero carbon target.”
Adding a global perspective, Haitham Al Ghais, Secretary General of OPEC, addressed the summit for the first time, underscoring Libya’s critical role within OPEC and the global energy landscape. “Libya continues to play a great role in OPEC and in the global oil and gas market. Everything that happens in Libya has an impact on the market,” Al Ghais remarked.
He also emphasized the importance of ongoing investment in hydrocarbons during the energy transition, stating, “Preemptive decisions and cautious measures have been taken by OPEC+. We have a long-term strategic vision, aiming to increase our total production from 24% to 50%.”
LEES 2025 serves as a platform for Libya’s energy leaders to showcase the country’s progress and potential, while fostering dialogue with global partners. With Libya’s energy sector at the center of global attention, the summit highlights the nation’s determination to not only secure its energy future, but also contribute meaningfully to the global energy landscape.
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Theo Neethling, Professor of Political Science, Department of Political Studies and Governance, University of the Free State
South Africa’s political and economic landscape shifted significantly after the 2024 national elections. The ruling ANC’s dramatic loss of support resulted in a government of national unity – a pivotal moment in the country’s political history.
It is still too early to assess the unity government’s success. But it signifies an effort by political parties to agree on the values and principles that should guide behaviour and decision-making in the national government.
to work together as political parties for the good of the country, and to deliver a government that will be united in action and purpose.
However, a key question remains: will it hold? The question arises because the unity government demands that its constituent parties cooperate, even though their respective constituencies may want different things.
Certain issues will put pressure on the coalition. Consequently, the unity government raises uncertainties about the country’s political stability and direction. Particularly given the coalition’s heavy reliance on President Cyril Ramaphosa’s facilitating leadership.
As a political science researcher, I have studied South Africa’s political landscape for the past two decades, and analysed its political risk.
Here I outline eight key factors – among others – that will shape the country’s short and medium term trajectory and test the strength of its unity government.
Depth of democracy
It was necessary to form the unity government to stabilise governance. But its durability is uncertain. The coalition’s middle ground may be strained as conflicting priorities arise among its members. Key are ideological differences over National Health Insurance and conflicting foreign policy issues.
At the same time, legitimacy and confidence in governance need to be restored. Voter turnout has declined – from 89% in 1999 to 58% in 2024.
If this democracy experiment fails, it could dent the confidence of voters and business. Forming the unity government improved business confidence to “cautious optimism”.
Incumbency and succession
Divisions in the ANC continue to threaten its unity. These were highlighted at the party’s 2017 elective conference. Ramaphosa narrowly secured re-election as ANC president, exposing serious rifts within the party. These internal divisions cast uncertainty over Ramaphosa’s effective leadership of his party. His successor might affect the ANC’s future role in the unity government.
Public confidence in government institutions has eroded since 1994, particularly at the municipal level. Protests at the poor – or lack of – delivery of basic services, including water and sanitation, are pervasive. Violent protests reflect growing dissatisfaction.
Declining trust in parliament and other governmental bodies – starting during former president Jacob Zuma’s term (2009-2018) – is a major concern.
The risk of large-scale political unrest has decreased since democracy in 1994. But frustration among the poor, unemployed and marginalised still carries the risk of sporadic riots and instability.
The violent protests in July 2021, mainly in the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, are a reminder. The underlying factors for over 300 fatalities, looting and destruction stemmed from the state’s failure to address poverty.
The unity government needs to power economic growth, create jobs and reduce poverty.
Trust in police is low, fuelling growth in the private security sector. There are now over 2.7 million registered private security officers and 150,000 police officers.
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s leadership is key to the success of the unity government.GCIS via Flcker
The unity government must restore public trust in the police and enhance security.
Economic sentiment
Despite the country’s numerous challenges, the economy attracted nearly R100 billion (US$5.3 billion) in foreign direct investment inflows in 2023, equivalent to 1.4% of GDP.
The country offers several advantages to foreign investors. These include world-class financial services and communication sectors, robust capital markets, quality tertiary institutions and a transparent legal framework.
It also has abundant natural resources, a strategic geographic position as a gateway to sub-Saharan Africa, and a degree of political and policy stability.
Crime remains perhaps the greatest deterrent for potential tourists. It’s also a pressing concern for business leaders.
Addressing crime must thus be among the top priorities of the unity government.
Government competence
Poor governance and a crisis of competence plague public administration, particularly at the local level. Service delivery failures, such as water provision, stem from inadequate skills and from corruption and maladministration.
The July 2021 unrest underscored the state’s institutional weaknesses. The report on the riots stated that inadequate service delivery, bad living conditions, economic challenges and persistent poverty created fertile ground for unrest.
The unity government must foster a professional and effective public service that delivers tangible improvements.
Regional landscape
South Africa is not threatened by any neighbours. However, illegal migration has become a major cause for concern since the economic crisis in Zimbabwe began in the 1990s. Perceptions are growing that migrants are overwhelming the resources of the country, and take jobs from South Africans and engage in crime.
The presence of illegal miners, many from impoverished neighbouring nations, heightens social tensions.
The country was recently forced to shut its primary border crossing with Mozambique, a hub for coal and chrome exports, amid the latter’s election-related protests. Addressing these regional dynamics requires a strong foreign policy stance and robust measures to pursue peace in Mozambique.
– South Africa in 2025: 8 key factors that will shape the future and test the government – https://theconversation.com/south-africa-in-2025-8-key-factors-that-will-shape-the-future-and-test-the-government-247379
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Marvellous Adeoye, Global health researcher, University of Essex
Air pollution has an alarming effect on global health. In 2019, it was responsible for 4.2 million global deaths. Inhaling air pollution harms health in many different ways beyond simply having effects on the lungs. Over 70% of air pollution deaths are due to cardiovascular diseases – diseases of the heart and blood vessels, such as heart attacks and strokes.
For many years, cardiovascular diseases were considered to be more of a problem of more prosperous countries, but this is not the case anymore.
In Africa cardiovascular diseases are now the second leading cause of death after respiratory infections and tuberculosis. The numbers of cardiovascular deaths are much higher in low-income countries where access to diagnosis and treatment is limited by resources available. But where does air pollution fit in?
An additional problem is that the region is not ready to address the increasing numbers of cardiovascular cases. Africa is experiencing a dramatic shortage of cardiovascular specialists. In 2018 the region had only around 2,000 cardiologists for the entire continent of 1.2 billion people.
While air pollution is now beginning to decline at a global level, there are huge regional variations, with air quality still deteriorating in many low- and middle-income countries, including countries in Africa.
Common sources of air pollution in Africa include vehicle emissions and industrial activities, as well as the burning of agricultural waste after harvesting. The use of solid fuels in homes like wood, charcoal and dried animal dung also releases pollutants into the atmosphere.
This mixture of air pollution can generate a range of air pollutants which can affect health in different ways. Pollutants include airborne particles of various sizes, and gases such as nitrogen dioxide, ozone, carbon monoxide and sulphur dioxide.
Research in other regions of the world clearly shows that air pollution has an impact on cardiovascular health. However, the evidence from Africa is limited due to both a lack of air quality data – just 24 of the 54 African nations are set up to measure air quality in some capacity – and studies that look at the health consequences.
Our research found only six academic studies exploring the impact of air pollution on cardiovascular diseases in the region. The majority focus on urban populations in South Africa.
This makes it difficult to determine the health impact of air pollution across Africa as a whole.
Still, our review identified studies showing clear associations between several air pollutants and increased cardiovascular hospitalisations and death.
There is a critical need to expand air quality monitoring across the continent, and then to use this data to assess the links between different air pollutants and cardiovascular disease.
We need data from different countries in Africa and both urban and rural locations. This will enable policymakers to target regulations and public health interventions.
Public health education is also essential to raise awareness about lifestyle risk factors and the health impacts of air pollution. It will allow individuals to take steps to reduce their exposure and improve their cardiovascular health.
– Heart attacks and high blood pressure are on the rise in Africa – what does air pollution have to do with it? – https://theconversation.com/heart-attacks-and-high-blood-pressure-are-on-the-rise-in-africa-what-does-air-pollution-have-to-do-with-it-243816
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Liani Maasdorp, Senior lecturer in Screen Production and Film and Television Studies, University of Cape Town
When was the last time a film changed the way you saw the world? Or the way you behaved?
Miners Shot Down (2014) countered mainstream media narratives to reveal how striking mine workers were gunned down by police at Marikana in South Africa. Black Fish (2013) made US theme park SeaWorld’s stock prices plummet. And Virunga (2014) stopped the British oil company Soco International from mining in the Congolese national park from which the film takes its name.
These films were all at the centre of impact campaigns designed to move people to act. In filmmaking, “impact” may involve bringing people together around important issues. It could also lead to people changing their minds or behaviour. It might change lives or policies.
Impact is achieved not just by a film’s own power to make people aware of and care about an issue. It requires thinking strategically about how to channel that emotion into meaningful and measurable change.
Although it is a growing field, for which there are numerous funding opportunities, impact producing is seldom taught at film schools or in university film programmes. Teaching tends to be ad hoc or superficial.
As scholars who study and teach film, we wanted to know more about where and how people are learning about impact producing; the benefits of learning – and teaching – impact production; and the barriers that prevent emerging filmmakers and film students in Africa and the rest of the majority world from learning this discipline. (Also called the “global south” or the “developing world”, majority world is a term used to challenge the idea that the west is the centre of the world.)
So, for a recent article in Film Education Journal, we conducted desk research, a survey shared with the members of the Global Impact Producers Alliance and interviews with a sample of stakeholders, selected based on their knowledge of teaching impact or experience of learning about it.
We found that there are university and college courses that focus on social issue filmmaking, but hardly any that prioritise social impact distribution. Access to free in-person training is highly competitive, generally requiring a film in production. We also found that free online resources – though numerous – can be overwhelming to those new to the field. And the majority of the courses, labs and resources available have been created in the west.
We believe it is important for film students and emerging filmmakers to know at least the basics of impact producing, for a range of reasons. Film is a powerful tool that can be used to influence audience beliefs and behaviour. Students need to know how they are being influenced by the media – and also how they can use it to advance causes that make the world more just and sustainable. The skills are transferable to other story forms, which empowers students to work in different contexts, in both the commercial and independent film sectors. It can benefit a student’s career progression and future job prospects.
Existing opportunities
We found that current impact learning opportunities range in depth and accessibility.
Many webinars, masterclasses and short one-off training opportunities are freely available online. But some are not recorded: you have to be there in person. Many form part of film festivals and film market programmes, which charge registration fees.
Impact “labs” are on offer around the world. They usually run for less than a week and are offered by different organisations, often in collaboration with Doc Society (the leading proponent of impact production worldwide). Although they are almost all free of charge, the barrier to entry is high: they are aimed at filmmakers with social impact films already in the making.
We found that the postgraduate programmes (MA and PhD) most aligned with this field are offered by a health sciences university in the US, Saybrook Univerity, and are very expensive.
African content, global reach
In our journal article we presented two impact learning opportunities from the majority world as case studies. One, the Aflamuna Fellowship, is an eight-month in-person programme based in Beirut, Lebanon. It combines theoretical learning, “job shadowing” on existing impact campaigns, and in-service learning through designing and running impact campaigns for new films. This programme has proven very helpful to filmmakers approaching topics that are particularly sensitive within the Middle East and north Africa regions, such as LGBTQ+ rights.
The other, the UCT/Sunshine Cinema Film Screening Impact Facilitator short course, is based in South Africa but is hosted entirely online. It was developed by the University of Cape Town Centre for Film and Media Studies and the mobile cinema distribution NGO Sunshine Cinema and launched in 2021. We are both connected to it – one as course convenor (Maasdorp) and the other (Loader) as one of the 2023 alumni.
Self-directed learning (including learning videos, prescribed films, readings and case studies) is followed by discussions with peers in small groups and live online classes with filmmakers, movement builders and impact strategists. The final course assignment is to plan, market, host and report on a film screening and facilitate an issue-centred discussion with the audience. Topics addressed by students in these impact screenings are diverse, ranging from voter rights, to addiction, to climate change, to gender-based violence.
Both case studies offer powerful good practice models in impact education. Projects developed as part of these programmes go on to be successful examples of impact productions within the industry. The documentary Lobola, A Bride’s True Price? (2022, directed by Sihle Hlophe), for instance, got wide reaching festival acclaim, walking away with several prizes across Africa. Both programmes combine theoretical learning; discussion of case studies relevant to the local context; engagements with experienced impact workers; and application of the learning in practice.
It is clear from this study that there is a hunger for more structured impact learning opportunities globally, and for local, context specific case studies from around the world.
– Films can change the world – why universities and film schools should teach impact strategies – https://theconversation.com/films-can-change-the-world-why-universities-and-film-schools-should-teach-impact-strategies-242043
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
LUANDA, Angola, January 18, 2025/APO Group/ —
The 2025 edition of the Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference and exhibition will be officially launched at a Reception Event in Luanda on January 28, 2025. This exclusive gathering – taking place at Lookal Beach Club from 18:00-21:00 – will set the stage for the highly anticipated 6th edition of Angola’s premier oil and gas conference, scheduled for September 2025.
In 2025, AOG continues its legacy as the foremost platform for fostering investments, forging partnerships and advancing oil and gas projects in Angola. The conference serves as the go-to event for uniting global financial institutions and technology providers with Angola’s vast project and investment opportunities, representing the official deal-signing platform for the Angolan oil and gas industry. This next edition promises dynamic deal-signing opportunities, expanded topics for discussion and greater opportunity for collaboration, building on the success of previous editions to foster engagement and drive projects forward.
AOG is the largest oil and gas event in Angola. Taking place with the full support of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas; the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency; the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute; national oil company Sonangol; and the African Energy Chamber; the event is a platform to sign deals and advance Angola’s oil and gas industry. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.
With strategic goals of maintaining crude oil production above one million barrels per day beyond 2027 while expanding the role of natural gas in its energy mix, Angola offers significant growth opportunities for exploration and production and service companies. Targeting an investment pipeline of more than $60 billion over the next five years, the country offers a range of on- and offshore acreage, from frontier blocks to mature assets to marginal fields and farm-in opportunities. The 2025 edition will follow the Q1 launch of an international bid round and anticipated milestones, including operations starting at the Cabinda oil refinery, production from Angola’s first non-associated gas project, and the final investment decision on the country’s inaugural green hydrogen project. These milestones underscore AOG as the platform of choice for advancing Angola’s broad development agenda.
“The AOG conference has become the cornerstone of Angola’s oil and gas dialogue, driving transformative deals and industry collaboration. The 2025 edition arrives at a pivotal moment for the country, offering opportunities in exploration, production, refining and energy transition projects. Our Launch Reception on January 28 invites industry leaders to celebrate Angola’s achievements and prepare for another impactful event,” says Luis Conde, Event & Project Director at AOG producer Energy Capital & Power.
With Angola’s oil and gas industry poised for significant growth in 2025, AOG will continue to be a driving force in connecting stakeholders, showcasing innovation and facilitating the deals that power Angola’s energy ambitions. Industry leaders, policymakers, investors and stakeholders from Angola and across the globe are invited to attend the Launch Reception, which offers a unique opportunity to network, exchange insights and gain a first look at what the 2025 conference will bring.
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast, January 17, 2025/APO Group/ —
PowerGen Renewable Energy (PowerGen) has partnered with leading international investors to establish a scalable, distributed renewable energy platform targeting the deployment of 120 MW of renewable power, including battery energy storage solutions across Africa.
The platform is a collaboration between PowerGen and the Private Infrastructure Development Group (PIDG), the Danish Investment Fund for Developing Countries (IFU), EDFI Management Company, through its EU-funded Electrification Financing Initiative (ElectriFi), and the African Development Bank’s Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA). The anchor commitment from PIDG was made through InfraCo, its investment arm, with concessional capital provided by PIDG Technical Assistance.
SEFA is a multi-donor special fund managed by the African Development Bank that provides catalytic finance to unlock private sector investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency.
Building on PowerGen’s thirteen-plus years of experience developing, implementing, and operating projects across Africa, the funds will support the deployment of a 120MW portfolio of renewable mini-/metro-grids and commercial and industrial (C&I) power solutions, inclusive of battery energy storage.
Initially focused on Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the platform will be expanded within the wider region, leveraging PowerGen’s deep pipeline in combination with local developer and engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) partnerships. Adopting a platform approach has the potential to accelerate efforts to connect the 570 million people across sub-Saharan Africa who currently lack access to electricity, according to data from IRENA.
The first closing of the transaction was reached in January 2025 and will catalyse additional equity and debt finance later this year. PowerGen is a private sector partner of Power Africa, a U.S. government-led partnership that provided technical assistance to PowerGen and previous funding to ElectriFi and SEFA.
PIDG’s Head of Investment Management for InfraCo, Claire Jarratt, said: “PIDG has worked with PowerGen for a number of years in Sierra Leone, and we are confident in their ability to develop, deliver and operate high-quality distributed energy infrastructure in challenging conditions. We are therefore delighted to anchor this new investment. We are pleased to be working with partners to support PowerGen to expand its offering across sub-Saharan Africa at a platform scale that has the potential to be truly transformational.”
Luke Foley, PIDG Deputy Head of Technical Assistance, added: “This investment epitomises the PIDG mandate. It builds on PIDG’s innovative use of its blended finance tools and reinforces its dedication to support the deployment of sustainable energy solutions, which are key to both combating climate change and fostering economic resilience in the region.”
IFU Investment Director, Henrik Henriksen, said: “There is a tremendous need for enabling access to clean energy that can assist underserved households and businesses in Africa to become more resilient to climate change and to provide them with opportunities for better living conditions without further increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, we are very proud to be a part of a joint investment enabling PowerGen to develop sustainable off-grid power solutions in sub-Saharan Africa. This aligns with our increased focus on supporting Africa’s transition to be more climate resilient.”
Rodrigo Madrazo Garcia de Lomana, CEO of EDFI Management Company, said: “Our initial investment in PowerGen Renewable Energy in 2019 has proven to be truly catalytic, paving the way for this significant funding round. We are excited to continue supporting PowerGen’s growth as part of this round, which showcases the ripple effect of our early commitment. PowerGen exemplifies how targeted early-stage funding can unlock transformative solutions for sustainable energy access in emerging markets.”
Dr Daniel Schroth, Director of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency at the African Development Bank, said: “The African Development Bank’s contribution to PowerGen’s platform reflects our commitment to catalysing private investment in sustainable infrastructure and energy access in line with the objectives of Mission 300. This project will bring electricity to underserved areas in Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and the DRC, and generate significant economic activity and create numerous employment opportunities. It’s an excellent example of our strategy to drive development through targeted partnerships.”
Aaron Cheng, CEO of PowerGen, said: “We are thrilled to announce this transformational next chapter to drive our vision of providing clean, reliable, and affordable energy across Africa. We are grateful to our terrific partners for their collaboration, and together, we look forward to contributing at scale to the energy transition and socio-economic growth across the continent.”
With funding secured, PowerGen is well-positioned to serve the energy needs of more than 68,000 households and reduce the cost of power for 7,000 businesses. Increasing access to reliable and affordable electricity is expected to enhance business productivity, create indirect jobs and drive economic growth.
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
TRIPOLI, Libya, January 17, 2025/APO Group/ —
Repsol has been deeply involved in Libya for nearly three decades. How do you see your role evolving in the country over the next decade, particularly as Libya aims to increase its oil production significantly?
Repsol is dedicated to maintaining a lasting and meaningful presence in Libya, a country that has played a key role in our history and growth. Since 1994, we have operated continuously in Libya, demonstrating our strong commitment. However, our connection with the country began much earlier. In 1965, our predecessor, Hispanoil (La Sociedad Hispánica de Petróleos S.A.), was established with a vision to expand oil and gas exploration beyond Spain. By 1966, Hispanoil started its first operations in Libya’s Sirte Basin, beginning a partnership based on cooperation and shared success.
Over the years, our involvement in Libya has grown and strengthened, becoming a core part of our work. Today, we contribute to Libya’s energy sector through Akakus Oil Operations, our trusted local operator, managing licenses NC115 and NC186. These activities are essential not only to our company, but also to Libya’s economic development and energy stability. By providing valuable resources, we help support the country’s progress and improve the quality of life for its people, underscoring our role as a partner in Libya’s growth.
Looking to the future, we are preparing to take part in the 2025 Bid Round, the first since 2007, an event of great importance for Libya and the global energy industry. Securing new exploration opportunities is essential to maintaining our operations and continuing to contribute to the country’s future. Success in this process will allow us to meet Libya’s energy needs, promote local development and strengthen our relationship with the Libyan people.
Our vision extends beyond business. We are committed to Libya’s long-term success by supporting its communities and driving sustainable growth. Through innovation and collaboration, we aim to strengthen Libya’s energy sector, create economic opportunities and enhance the well-being of its citizens. With deep respect for Libya’s potential, we are proud to stand as a trusted partner, working together to build a brighter future for generations to come.
Repsol’s ambitious exploration campaign in Libya plays a central role in its strategy. Could you provide an update on the progress of this campaign, particularly the drilling of nine wells planned through November 2025? How are exploration activities progressing in contract blocks NC115 and NC186?
Our exploration campaign is both ambitious and strategically significant, reflecting our commitment to unlocking Libya’s energy potential. With a plan to drill nine wells consecutively, we have adopted an intensive approach to ensure the success of this initiative. Given the tight timeframe leading up to the November 2025 deadline, we have made the decision to deploy two drilling rigs to expedite the process. The first rig commenced operations in December 2024, spudding the initial exploration well, while the second rig is scheduled to begin activity in February this year, reinforcing our ability to meet the campaign’s ambitious goals.
The scope of this campaign is diverse, encompassing a carefully selected portfolio of prospects. These range from conventional exploration opportunities to innovative stratigraphic plays that hold the potential to redefine exploration in the Murzuq Basin. The inclusion of these new stratigraphic targets represents a bold step toward expanding our understanding of the region’s geology and could pave the way for an entirely new exploration model within this key area.
We are highly optimistic about the results of this campaign, as it represents not just an opportunity to enhance our resource base, but also a chance to contribute to the advancement of exploration techniques in the Murzuq Basin. The outcomes of this work have the potential to shape the future of energy exploration in the region, aligning with our broader mission to drive innovation and create long-term value in Libya’s energy sector.
What is the current status of Repsol’s production enhancement plan in Libya, and how are you progressing toward the targets 300,000 BPD by December 2024 and 350,000 BPD by December 2025?
The Production Increase Plan has been a remarkable achievement driven by the power of teamwork. It represents the hard work and dedication of several key groups: our partners at the National Oil Corporation (NOC), Repsol and its Second Party partners (TotalEnergies, OMV and Equinor) and our Operating Company, Akakus Oil Operations. Each of these teams brought their unique expertise and skills to the table, working seamlessly together to transform a clear vision into a successful reality. It is this collaboration that allowed us to navigate the complex challenges involved and find effective solutions.
As with any great success, the foundation lies in the strength of the teamwork behind it. It is through the combined efforts of all these stakeholders that we have been able to reach our goal of 300,000 barrels of oil per day (bopd) by December 2024. This milestone is a clear indication of the capabilities and commitment of everyone involved, as we not only met our target but did so according to the plan.
We are now focused on the next phase of the project, which is to increase production to 350,000 bopd by the end of 2025. This is an ambitious but achievable target. With a robust portfolio of opportunities and an effective strategy in place, we are confident that we will meet this new goal. We have established a solid foundation during the first phase, and this momentum will carry us forward.
Looking beyond our immediate target, our efforts are also contributing to Libya’s broader production goals. The national plan aims to boost production to 2 million bopd by 2026, and we are proud to be part of this larger vision. By reaching our target of 350,000 bopd, we are playing an important role in helping Libya achieve this ambitious goal. Our continued collaboration, focus and expertise will be key to supporting the country’s energy ambitions in the coming years.
The success we’ve achieved so far is a direct result of effective teamwork, technical expertise and a shared commitment to reaching our production goals. As we move into the next phase, we are confident that, together, we will continue to exceed expectations and contribute meaningfully to Libya’s growing oil production capacity.
Repsol has highlighted its strong collaboration with the NOC and local stakeholders. How are you integrating sustainable energy practices with Libya’s economic and social priorities to support the country’s long-term development?
At Repsol, we are committed to integrating sustainable energy practices into Libya’s long-term development by aligning our efforts with both the country’s economic and social priorities. In this context, we are actively collaborating with the NOC and local renewable energy authorities to advance sustainable energy solutions. We are also focused on reducing gas flaring in our operations. By capturing and using the associated gas, we can power turbines and generate electricity, providing a more sustainable energy solution. Furthermore, we are working on a project at the FEED (Front End Engineering Design) stage to establish a plant in Ubari that will supply Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) to the local population, improving energy access and supporting the community’s development.
Through these initiatives, we are not only contributing to Libya’s energy transformation, but also supporting its long-term social and economic growth by providing more sustainable energy solutions.