Mozambique has reaffirmed its commitment to maximizing oil and gas exploration as a catalyst for industrialization and economic growth.
Speaking at the Invest in African Energies: Mozambique Roundtable in Maputo, Florival Mucave, Chairman of the Mozambique Energy Chamber, underscored the country’s dedication to harnessing its energy resources for national development.
“Our strategy as a developing nation is to ‘Drill, Baby, Drill’—maximizing exploration and production to drive industrialization and economic progress,” Mucave stated.
He emphasized that oil and gas investments are critical for poverty reduction and expanding economic opportunities in Mozambique.
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber (AEC), echoed Mucave’s sentiment, advocating for stronger public-private collaboration to promote investment while ensuring the inclusion of youth and women in the energy sector.
“Mozambique’s energy story must be written by Mozambicans. We must prioritize local content, resist resource nationalization, and strengthen partnerships with both global and local companies. These companies are not our adversaries,” Ayuk remarked.
He also dismissed criticisms of fossil fuel development, arguing that Mozambique must fully capitalize on its natural resources. “When they tell you oil is bad while they continue to benefit from it, we must produce every drop to empower ourselves. Do not apologize for developing this God-given resource. The Chamber will stand by you,” Ayuk asserted.
During the roundtable, Mozambique’s Petroleum Regulator Administrator, Milton Macuacua Zibane, revealed that the country is fast-tracking over $15 billion in planned oil and gas projects to boost employment and drive economic expansion.
The AEC roundtable convened key industry players to discuss Mozambique’s energy potential, investment opportunities, and strategies for sustainable growth in the oil and gas sector.
