African Energy Chamber (AEC): Africa should Embrace its Fossil Fuels – Including Coal – to Secure Africa’s Energy Future
The global transition to a low-carbon economy has led to an increase in scrutiny of coal, with many industrialized countries deeming its major environmental and health impacts as major issues.
Africa Energy Room (AEC) – Voice of the African Energy Sector – Advocating that coal is an important part of the African energy portfolio. NJ Ayuk, executive chairman of the African Energy Office, spoke at the Southern Africa Oil and Gas Conference in 2025 – NJ Ayuk stressed that coal cannot be given up because it provides a pathway to economic growth and energy security. AEC is a strategic partner of Saoga 2025.
“We should never apologize for leveraging fossil fuel resources to boost growth and improve lives. We need to fund coal and unlock the potential of its African interests. Dig out babies and dig!” he said.
He stressed that while some may advocate a rapid transition to renewable energy, it is important to understand and recognize that Africa’s energy needs are unique. He noted: “Our continent needs a balanced approach that includes all energy sources, including fossil fuels.
Meanwhile, new producers have emerged across Africa, and projects like the East African crude oil pipeline will be launched soon. The 1,443 km pipeline will be a game-changing infrastructure project in East Africa – which can transport 246,000 barrels of crude oil per day and position the region as an increase in participation in the global energy market.
“The great infringement of Mauritania and Senegal’s Ahmeim project is another example of a rapidly developing energy sector in Africa. Southern Africa, in particular, has real potential. An estimated 6.7 million barrels of oil is produced per day, with an estimated increase of 2 million barrels per day, and over the next five years, the continent will grow increasingly within the global investment range of energy, rather than global investment companies, while the South’s engine oil is working hard to develop.
He noted that oil and gas discoveries in Africa did not automatically translate into production, highlighting the need for the industry to align with financial and infrastructure development and policy support.
He cited recent funding from the United States to Mozambique, which is a welcome step in this direction. The U.S. Bank of Export International reapproved the decision this month for a $4.7 billion loan to the Mozambique LNG project, a decision that provides a much-needed boost to one of the mainland’s most important energy investments. Mozambique’s natural gas reserves are enormous, with about 65 trillion cubic feet of recyclable natural gas. The Mozambique LNG project led by TotalEnergies has the potential to stimulate the Mozambique economy and provide an important gas source to meet the growing energy demand in Asian and other international markets.
“Recent funding from the United States to Mozambique is a welcome step and we hope this paves the way for similar projects on the African continent,” he said.
Meanwhile, AYUK stressed that Africa’s energy sector must prioritize competitiveness and local content in order to survive in global markets. “We are not competing with neighboring countries; we are competing with emerging energy players such as Guyana and Suriname. To attract investment and drive growth, we need to create a conducive environment that encourages companies to invest in Africa and promote local content, which in turn will bring opportunities for our citizens.”
He also talked about the global double standards around natural gas, pointing out that it is considered “green” in Europe but not acceptable in Africa. “We have to challenge these double standards and make sure our energy sector receives the support we deserve.”
In short, AYUK encourages Saoga and all stakeholders to continue advocating for the energy interests of Africa. “We must not apologize for leveraging fossil fuel resources to drive growth, improve lives and create a better future for Africa, and promote fossil fuel resources.”
Distributed by Apo Group on behalf of the African Energy Room.
