ExxonMobil Says Mozambique LNG Project Could Begin by 2030 if Cabo Delgado Security Improves
US energy giant ExxonMobil has reaffirmed that security remains the decisive factor for advancing its multi-billion-dollar LNG project in Cabo Delgado, northern Mozambique.
The company is leading the construction and future operation of natural gas liquefaction and related facilities for Area 4, one of the Rovuma Basin’s largest offshore blocks.
The project is operated by Mozambique Rovuma Venture (MRV), a joint venture between ExxonMobil, Italy’s Eni, and China’s CNPC.
Speaking at the 10th Mozambique Gas and Energy Summit and Exhibition in Maputo, Arne Gibbs, ExxonMobil Mozambique’s general manager, stressed that defeating Islamist insurgents in Cabo Delgado is critical to ensuring a sustainable development environment.
Gibbs explained that the Final Investment Decision (FID) hinges on lifting the force majeure declared by TotalEnergies in April 2021, after terrorist attacks in Palma halted its Area 1 project adjacent to Area 4.
“Once the force majeure is lifted and the security situation improves, production could begin in 2029 or 2030,” Gibbs said. “ExxonMobil is completing technical studies and preparatory work, with the assumption that operations will resume. If not, the project’s timeline could be affected.”
He noted that initial investments have already exceeded $300 million, including infrastructure development in the Afungi Peninsula, the creation of over 400 direct jobs, and an immediate boost to Mozambique’s economy.
The Area 4 LNG project includes subsea gas pipelines at depths of more than 1,500 meters, transportation to Afungi, and processing in a liquefaction plant with the capacity to produce 18 million tonnes per year.
“The benefits begin immediately after the investment decision,” Gibbs emphasized. “Revenues, taxes, jobs, and opportunities for the country start flowing long before the first gas is produced.”
Looking ahead, Gibbs expressed optimism: “We believe Mozambique’s future in the energy sector is bright. With stability and cooperation, this project will be transformative—not only for Mozambique but for the entire region.”
