As Mozambique prepares to restart the delayed $20 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) project, a renewed focus on peace and stability has become paramount. Post-election violence and protests have unsettled the nation, raising concerns about its readiness to fully capitalize on its vast natural gas reserves.
The African Energy Chamber (AEC), a leading advocate for Africa’s energy sector, has urged Mozambique’s government and opposition to prioritize unity and sustainable development during this pivotal moment in the country’s history.
Since the discovery of significant natural gas deposits off its northern coast in 2010, Mozambique has been heralded as a rising star in the global energy landscape. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected that LNG exports could generate $500 billion in revenues by 2045, with average annual real GDP growth of 24% from 2021 through 2025.
Energy giants Total Energies, ExxonMobil, and Eni are spearheading major LNG developments, while smaller upstream companies and gas-to-power projects, such as Coral Sul LNG and Rovuma LNG, are nearing completion. By 2030, these efforts are expected to provide stable energy to more than 2 million homes and position Mozambique among the world’s top 10 LNG producers.
Geopolitically, Mozambique’s transformation into an energy hub could benefit the entire Southern African region, supplying energy to neighboring nations such as Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Tanzania. Its 2,700-kilometer coastline along the Indian Ocean further enhances its potential as a global energy gateway, offering efficient access to markets in Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Despite these promising developments, Mozambique faces a critical challenge: ensuring peace and stability in the wake of post-election unrest. Demonstrations and violence have threatened to undermine confidence among international investors, whose participation is essential to the country’s economic success.
“Peace and stability are essential for Mozambique to unlock its immense economic potential,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “As the country emerges as a global energy hub, the confidence of the international community rests on a unified and secure nation.”
Ayuk emphasized that a commitment to peace would not only safeguard Mozambique’s multi-billion-dollar energy projects but also drive long-term prosperity and sustainable growth.
The stakes are high. Mozambique’s development as a trusted global energy partner depends on its ability to promote unity, security, and democratic principles. The AEC has called on the government and opposition leaders to strike a balance, fostering an environment conducive to investment and inclusive growth.
The path forward offers two distinct possibilities: instability that deters international partnerships or a commitment to peace that transforms Mozambique into a beacon of economic and social progress.
“Long-term benefits for all the people of the country depend on the government finding common ground and implementing solutions that reflect Mozambique’s potential,” Ayuk said.
With plans to restart LNG construction and an opportunity to solidify its role as a global energy leader, Mozambique stands at a decisive moment. The choices made now will determine whether the country can fully harness its natural resources to benefit its citizens and secure its place in Africa’s energy future.