Latest news with #APPO
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Central African Pipeline System Gains Traction as Committee President Returns to African Energy Week (AEW) 2025
In line with the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference's vision to make African energy poverty history by 2030, Gabriel Mbaga Obiang Lima, President of the Strategic Partnership and Fund Committee for the Central African Pipeline System (CAPS), is returning to this year's edition as a speaker. Lima's participation comes as the development of CAPS - an integrated network of downstream and midstream oil and gas infrastructure - is advancing with an aim to enhance energy access, reduce fuel imports and spur industrial growth in Central Africa. In July 2025, a significant milestone was achieved when the Central African Economic and Monetary Community, the African Petroleum Producers' Organization (APPO) and the Central Africa Business&Energy Forum signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to kick-start a feasibility study for CAPS. The MoU sets the foundation for participation from up to 11 Central African countries in evaluating the project's viability, regional impact and national contributions. The 6,500km pipeline network will enhance Central Africa's energy market resilience and affordability by optimizing the exploitation, local beneficiation and distribution of Africa's estimated 125.3 billion barrels of crude oil and 620 trillion cubic feet of gas resources. With APPO finalizing the launch of the multi-billion African Energy Bank with the African Export-Import Bank this year, the organization's participation in the MoU and interest in CAPS is timely. The MoU not only strengthens regional collaboration but also strategically positions CAPS to be shortlisted for financing from the new bank. Furthermore, with 18 oil-producing APPO member states focused on accelerating the exploitation of hydrocarbon resources, the organization's involvement in CAPS represents a powerful step toward eradicating energy poverty and enhancing regional energy security. The CAPS project will encompass oil, gas and LPG pipelines, pumping stations, storage terminals, refineries and gas-fired power plants, all contributing to regional energy access and industrial transformation. AEW: Invest in African Energies serves as the continent's premier platform for connecting high-impact African projects such as CAPS with global investors. Under the theme, Invest in African Energy: Positioning Africa as the Global Energy Champion, the event provides a strategic venue for Lima to present updates on CAPS milestones, development timelines and its alignment with Africa's broader industrialization agenda. With the pipeline set to span various countries such as Angola, Burundi, Cameroon, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Rwanda and São Tomé⪻íncipe, AEW: Invest in African Energies enables Lima to engage directly with policymakers and stakeholders vital to advancing the initiative. 'As Africa advances its 'drill baby drill' agenda, building robust downstream and midstream infrastructure for local energy beneficiation and distribution is critical,' stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. 'The CAPS project, under Lima's leadership, is a testament to Africa's breakthrough in closing infrastructure gaps. Projects like CAPS are essential to lifting 600 million people out of energy poverty and providing access to clean cooking for over 900 million.' Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber. About African Energy Week: AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit for more information about this exciting event.
Zawya
08-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
African Petroleum Producers' Organization (APPO) Secretary General to Speak at the African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 as Africa Energy Bank Prepares for Launch
In a significant step toward bolstering financing for Africa's energy sector, the African Petroleum Producers' Organization (APPO) and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) are advancing plans to launch the African Energy Bank (AEB). In April this year, APPO hired consulting firm PWC as project management consultants for the $5 billion development finance institution, which will be headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria and is set to commence operations this year. The bank will provide tailored financing solutions for African oil and gas projects, addressing long-standing funding gaps and enabling project developers to advance exploration, production and monetization initiatives. In the wake of this major milestone for energy financing on the continent, Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, Secretary General, APPO will participate as a speaker at this year's African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 – taking place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town. AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit for more information about this exciting event. The AEB will feature a three-tiered shareholder structure, including APPO member states, other African nations and their national oil companies, as well as individual and corporate investors from outside the continent. So far, Nigeria, Angola and Ghana have fulfilled their capital commitments to the bank, representing 44% of the required minimum contributions and laying the groundwork for its launch. Additional pledges have been made by Algeria, Benin, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Ivory Coast. The launch of the AEB comes amid a broader shift in African energy cooperation, with APPO, the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa and the Central Africa Business&Energy Forum signing a MoU in April 2025 to develop the Central African Pipeline System. The system, spanning up to 11 countries, envisions thousands of kilometers of oil, gas and LPG pipelines and associated infrastructure aimed at improving regional energy access and security. APPO has also established a strong partnership with the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). The collaboration between the two organizations aims to advance African oil and gas projects through shared expertise, coordinated efforts in market stabilization and investment opportunities. This partnership demonstrates APPO's commitment to engaging in collaborative action to address Africa's energy needs as well as advancing sustainable development on the continent. 'Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim's leadership in establishing the African Energy Bank represents a bold step toward a self-sustained African energy sector. His participation at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 will spotlight the future of energy financing on the continent and inspire confidence in Africa's ability to fund its own growth,' states Tomás Gerbasio, VP of Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber. With major oil and gas projects underway in Africa – such as the cross-border Greater Tortue Ahmeyim LNG development, Mozambique LNG, Uganda's Lake Albert development, Senegal's Sangomar field development and others – APPO stands ready to support these initiatives by ensuring access to necessary funding. As such, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 serves as the premier platform for stakeholders and policymakers to engage with international and domestic investors to make deals and form partnerships that align with the continent's energy goals. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
Qatar Tribune
24-06-2025
- Business
- Qatar Tribune
African nations open to energy cooperation with Turkey: APPO head
Agencies Africa needs to expand its international partnerships beyond traditional allies to fully harness its vast energy resources, the secretary general of the African Petroleum Producers' Organization (APPO) Omar Farouk Ibrahim said, signaling Turkey as a promising partner. 'We are open to all forms of energy cooperation with Turkey,' Ibrahim told Anadolu Agency (AA) in remarks published on Monday. Urging African leaders to move past dependence on former colonial powers and deepen ties with emerging global players like Turkey, Ibrahim said: 'We've naively believed that the same countries which colonized and later left us would be the ones to help us grow.' 'After more than 60 years, despite our abundant resources, we have made little progress, but the world is changing, and fortunately, Africa is changing too,' he added. Turkey's rise on the global stage is being closely watched by Africa. 'Turkey is an ancient and strong civilization with a deeply rooted cultural heritage, and it is advancing technologically once again. This should allow Africa to look beyond the so-called traditional partners we have long relied on to 'save' the continent,' Ibrahim said. He noted that although Turkey has rapidly advanced technologically under challenging conditions, many in Africa remain unaware of its capabilities. Ibrahim called for enhanced public diplomacy, through media, education, and civil society to showcase Turkey's strengths. He also praised long-standing Turkish investments, such as scholarships for African students, as vital to building people-to-people ties. Moreover, Ibrahim noted that the energy transition presents a great opportunity for the continent, as, for the first time, it is forcing the people of Africa to ask a fundamental question of 'Why have we been producing oil and gas and exporting it outside Africa while our own people still lack the basic necessities of life?' 'The energy we send to Europe or America serves luxury, not survival. Here in Africa, the lack of energy leads to death almost every day,' Ibrahim said. He also noted that amid the global energy transition, the West, on which Africa has long relied for technology, financing, and markets, has decided to no longer fund oil and gas projects, leaving the continent increasingly vulnerable. 'We have been forced to establish the African Energy Bank. We are building the energy infrastructure that will enable us to transfer energy from regions of abundance to those in need,' he said. Ibrahim said APPO aims to unite producing countries around shared challenges, particularly about financing. APPO represents nations holding about 10% of the world's oil reserves and producing roughly 8% of global output. The organization's efforts focus on developing intra-African energy infrastructure and securing independent financing through the African Energy Bank. He warned that without funding, technology, and market access, Africa risks losing both its hydrocarbon sector and the chance to benefit from renewables. Ibrahim added that without domestic infrastructure, Africa risks being left behind in the new global energy landscape. 'Even though we have vast renewable potential, we lack the technology to develop it, which means we will again have to rely on others,' he said. He also underscored the continent's minimal role in global emissions, only 3%, and questioned the fairness of restrictions on Africa's use of its hydrocarbon resources, and added: 'Tripling emissions could help Africa industrialize, yet we are being told that we cannot use our resources.' Inviting Turkey to deepen its role in the African energy sector, Ibrahim said: 'If Turkey or Turkish investors wish to join the African Energy Bank, they are more than welcome.' He encouraged Turkish scientists, technologists, and investors to contribute to the development of Africa's oil and gas industry. Support in building cross-border pipelines, linking countries and facilitating the flow of energy and related products, is especially welcome, creating opportunities for a mutually beneficial partnership, Ibrahim said. In recent years, Turkey has taken on an increasingly active role in Africa's energy and mining sectors. Guided by a 'win-win' approach, Turkey has signed strategic cooperation agreements with numerous African countries, including Somalia, Niger, Libya, Egypt, Algeria, Angola, Senegal, Morocco, Sudan, Nigeria, and Djibouti. These deals, which aim to leverage Turkish expertise, technology, and investment capacity to support joint energy projects, have already led to the launch of concrete initiatives, with collaboration progressing swiftly on multiple fronts.
Zawya
12-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Can the African Energy Bank Transform the Continent's Refining and Downstream Future?
Set to launch in June 2025 with an initial $5 billion in capital, the African Energy Bank (AEB) is positioned to catalyze a shift in Africa's energy sector. Established by the African Petroleum Producers' Organization (APPO) in partnership with multilateral financial institution Afreximbank, the AEB aims to mobilize capital for upstream, midstream and downstream energy projects, addressing a continent-wide investment shortfall estimated at up to $50 billion annually. By providing accessible, Africa-focused financing, the AEB is expected to reduce dependency on foreign capital and imports, especially in the downstream sector where over 80% of refined petroleum products are currently imported. The AEB's role in advancing refining capacity and downstream development will take center stage at this year's African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 conference – taking place from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town. As Africa's premier platform for energy dialogue and investment, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 will spotlight the AEB's potential to transform Africa's energy landscape. Driving Refining Capacity Through Local Investment Despite holding over 125 billion barrels of oil and 620 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, Africa continues to struggle with insufficient refining capacity, forcing nations to export crude oil and re-import refined products at a premium. Institutions such as the African Refiners and Distributors Association (ARDA) have long-advocated for investment in modernizing and expanding Africa's refining infrastructure. Current projections indicate that African petroleum demand will increase from 4.1 million barrels per day (bpd) to 5.3 million bpd by 2040 – a trend that underscores the urgency of building self-sufficient refining systems. As such, the AEB – headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria and scheduled to begin operations in the second quarter of 2025 – is uniquely positioned to support strategic investment across Africa's downstream and refining sectors. With an ambition to grow its asset base to $120 billion, the bank is positioned to unlock domestic value chains and catalyze large-scale projects that meet the continent's rising demand for petroleum. Momentum in Downstream Expansion Recent developments across the continent reflect growing momentum to scale refining capacity. Angola expects phase one of the Cabinda refinery to begin operations in 2025, bringing 60,000 bpd to the market. The country has a goal to increase capacity to 445,000 bpd and is on track to reduce imports of derivatives by 14% by 2026. Nigeria's 650,000-bpd Dangote Refinery began producing diesel and aviation fuel in 2024, marking a significant milestone for domestic processing. Similarly, upgrades to the Port Harcourt Refinery and ongoing expansion to Ghana's Sentuo Oil Refinery highlight national efforts to meet growing demand. Equatorial Guinea's recent agreement with Shanghai SupeZet to build a new refinery and expand the Bata facility further illustrates the strategic push toward local processing. These efforts not only reduce import dependency but also create jobs, enhance energy security and promote regional trade in refined products. Aligning Regional Integration and Investment Africa's refining and energy infrastructure ambitions are closely tied to broader goals of economic integration. The African Continental Free Trade Agreement, ratified by more than 48 countries, creates a platform for cross-border energy projects by removing trade barriers and harmonizing investment policies. It also supports the development of regional supply chains, enhancing the commercial viability of shared infrastructure. The AEB will play a central role in supporting these regional ambitions by working with over 700 African financial institutions and APPO member states to channel funding into integrated, cross-border energy systems. By reducing the time, cost and risk associated with project development, the bank could accelerate the pace of infrastructure buildout across the continent. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber. About African Energy Week: AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit for more information about this exciting event.
Zawya
02-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) Secretary General Joins Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) 2025 Ahead of Energy Bank Launch
Omar Farouk Ibrahim, Secretary General of the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO), will speak at this year's edition of the Angola Oil&Gas (AOG) conference – the country's premier industry event, scheduled for September 3-4 in Luanda. Ibrahim's return to the conference reflects his commitment to supporting oil and gas projects in the country and comes as the organization prepares to launch the Africa Energy Bank (AEB) – a financial institution created in partnership with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank). Established with the aim of improving access to financing for African oil and gas projects, the AEB is on track to commence operations in June 2025, with the finalization of key arrangements made in April 2025. Headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria, the bank will have an initial capitalization of $5 billion, supported by an $83 million commitment made by each APPO member state. As of March 2025, three member countries – Angola, Nigeria and Ghana – had contributed, reflecting the support from some of Africa's biggest oil and gas producers. At AOG 2025, Ibrahim is set to share insight into the role the institution will play in markets such as Angola and how improved financing can support regional fuel security. 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@ As sub-Saharan Africa's second largest oil producer, Angola strives to sustain oil production above one million barrels per day beyond 2027. In tandem, the country aims to bolster gas monetization, with its first non-associated gas project – led by the New Gas Consortium – coming online in late-2025 or early-2026. Through a multi-year strategy, improved fiscals and an upcoming Gas Master Plan, the country is incentivizing spending across the entire oil and gas value chain. The AEB will support these goals by offering project developers the requisite financing to accelerate exploration, production and project development. Operating as a development finance institution, the AEB will focus on Africa. The bank will have three classes of shareholders, with Class A featuring founding countries, APPO member states and Afreximbank; Class B consisting of other African countries, alongside their national oil companies; and Class C being reserved for individual and corporate investors outside of the continent. This structure offers access to a wide investment pool and reflects the drive by APPO and Afreximbank to support African oil and gas developments. AOG 2025 offers a strategic platform for project developers in Angola to gain insight into financing opportunities made possible through the AEB. Ibrahim's participation will not only provide a greater understanding of the role the bank can play in the country but foster dealmaking in Angola as companies seek new financing mechanisms to expand their portfolios. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital&Power.
