The African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Conference

The African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 conference kicked off with several key developments and announcements that highlight the continent's growing importance in the global energy landscape.

Equatorial Guinea's Licensing Round

Equatorial Guinea is set to launch its EG Ronda Licensing Round in April 2026, offering 24 blocks for exploration, including offshore and onshore areas. Minister of Hydrocarbons and Mining Development, Antonio Oburu Ondo, emphasized the country's investor-friendly approach and open-door policy, which has led to significant deals, including a multi-billion-dollar agreement with ConocoPhillips.

Financing Africa's Energy Growth

Afreximbank's Executive Vice President, Haytham ElMaayergi, highlighted the importance of treating Africa's energy sector as an integrated value chain. He emphasized the need for balanced investment in upstream, midstream, and downstream activities to ensure sustainable production and distribution. Afreximbank is addressing financing challenges through innovative instruments and risk management solutions.

Gas Development in Africa

The opening fireside chat at AEW 2025 showcased the value of an Africa-first approach to gas development. Ministers from Senegal and Ghana discussed recently launched projects that will drive sustainable growth in West Africa, with a focus on domestic gas opportunities.

Other Key Developments

- Sierra Leone joins the International Energy Forum (IEF): Sierra Leone has officially joined the IEF, marking a significant step in deepening global energy dialogue and promoting investment opportunities.

- OPEC's Workshop: OPEC hosted a workshop at AEW 2025, discussing insights from the World Oil Outlook and highlighting the importance of Africa in the global energy landscape.

- JETConcert: The JETConcert brought together industry leaders, delegates, and artists to celebrate Africa's energy, creativity, and community, and to drive conversations around a just energy transition.

- Zimbabwe's Investment Opportunities: Zimbabwe showcased its high-potential investment opportunities in oil, gas, energy, and mining, offering attendees direct insight into emerging projects and strategic partnerships.

- Afreximbank's Commitmen: Afreximbank reaffirmed its role as a leading financier of Africa's energy sector, addressing both immediate needs and long-term opportunities through innovative financing solutions.

- GECF Secretary General's Participation: The GECF Secretary General participated in the Global Energy Leaders Forum, highlighting the importance of natural gas in Africa's energy transformation and the need for innovative financing mechanisms and strong partnerships.

These developments demonstrate the growing importance of Africa in the global energy landscape and the need for sustainable energy solutions to drive economic growth and development.