OPEC’s Haitham Al Ghais to highlight Africa’s energy role at AEW 2025
OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais will deliver remarks at African Energy Week (AEW) 2025: Invest in African Energies, set to take place in Cape Town. His participation underscores OPEC’s recognition of Africa’s growing importance in the global energy landscape and the organization’s commitment to driving investment and partnerships across the continent.
Since assuming office in 2022, Al Ghais has been a vocal advocate for Africa’s oil and gas sector, emphasizing its vital role in ensuring global energy security. With estimates suggesting that Africa holds up to 120 billion barrels of oil reserves, he has repeatedly called the development of these resources an “utmost priority” for OPEC, urging stakeholders to accelerate investment and infrastructure growth.
OPEC’s focus on Africa’s oil and gas future
At the Nigeria International Energy Summit earlier this year, Al Ghais reaffirmed OPEC’s dedication to unlocking Africa’s energy potential. He stressed the importance of sustainable investments that meet current energy demands while ensuring long-term security. This approach aligns with OPEC’s strategy of promoting a balanced and sustainable energy mix, where Africa’s oil and gas reserves play a central role.
Namibia is emerging as a key focus of this strategy. Following major offshore oil discoveries, the country is on track to become a significant producer by the next decade. Al Ghais has pledged OPEC’s support for Namibia’s exploration and production efforts, highlighting them as crucial for future supply stability and economic development.
AEW 2025 agenda and OPEC’s role
As an Official Partner of AEW 2025, OPEC’s contributions will include the World Oil Outlook session and the OPEC-Africa Roundtable. These sessions will provide insights into market trends, investment opportunities, and collaborative strategies for advancing Africa’s oil and gas sector.
“Secretary General Al Ghais’ participation in AEW 2025 highlights the organization’s recognition of Africa’s strategic importance in the global energy landscape,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “By fostering partnerships and encouraging investments, OPEC aims to unlock the continent’s energy potential and support sustainable growth in the oil and gas sector.”
OPEC’s engagement at AEW 2025 emphasizes its long-term commitment to Africa, positioning the continent as a central pillar in future energy development and security.
