The energy and industrial future of Central Africa stands at a decisive crossroads, where a more strategic use of its vast natural gas resources could play a central role in fostering inclusive, resilient, and sustainable development.

Natural gas, often viewed as a transitional energy source, is well-positioned to catalyze this transformation, especially with CABEF 2024 approaching from October 23 to 25 in Libreville, Gabon. This major event will explore how natural gas can serve as a lever for the industrialization and economic transformation of the sub-region, under the overarching theme: « Natural Gas as the Key to Industrialization and Economic Acceleration in Central Africa through Efficient Sub-regional Institutional Integration. »

Natural Gas: A Transitional Energy Source

Considered a less polluting resource compared to coal and oil, natural gas emits about 27% less CO2 than oil and 44% less CO2 than coal when burned. In Central Africa, where electricity access remains limited, natural gas represents a reliable alternative for energy production. For example, the Kribi gas power plant in Cameroon, inaugurated in 2013, not only increased the country’s energy supply by 216 MW but also contributed to reducing carbon footprint (World Bank, 2019).

This plant is the first in the country and the sub-region to operate on natural gas, becoming Cameroon’s first independent electricity producer, ahead of the Dibamba power plant. An expansion project is underway, which, once completed, will enable the facility to generate a total electrical power of 330 MW using natural gas.

At CABEF, the focus will be on harnessing natural gas as a primary energy source for the region, with particular attention to clean and sustainable solutions. A promising pathway for African countries would be to produce hydrogen from natural gas and adopt advanced carbon capture, storage, and utilization (CCUS) technologies. CCUS, in particular, is expected to be a key technology for the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) countries, seeking to combine economic growth with reduced carbon footprint.

Food Security: The Role of Natural Gas

Food security remains a central concern in Central Africa, where agriculture is a cornerstone of the economy for much of the population. Using natural gas for fertilizer production could transform the agricultural sector by improving the availability and quality of essential nutrients for crops. In Gabon, a gas-based fertilizer project perfectly illustrates this potential by reducing import dependence and increasing agricultural yields. Better soil fertilization could lead to a significant increase in harvests, thereby enhancing regional food security.

Natural Gas and Agricultural Development

Access to natural gas can also transform the agricultural sector in Central Africa by facilitating irrigation and reducing energy costs. For example, in the Republic of Congo, using gas to power irrigation systems could help overcome climate-related challenges. Furthermore, the industrialization of the agricultural sector, supported by energy from gas, can revitalize local value chains. The transformation of agricultural products, made possible by efficient energy infrastructure, can stimulate the local economy by creating jobs and adding value to raw products.

Development of Gas Infrastructure

Developing gas infrastructure is crucial to maximizing the use of natural gas in Central Africa. The construction of pipelines and liquefaction terminals, such as those planned under the Central Africa Pipeline Project (CAPS), supported by CABEF, would not only transport gas to local and international markets but also promote increased sub-regional collaboration. By connecting 11 countries in the sub-region, this project represents an integrated approach to the production, exploitation, and distribution of energy resources, creating a new economic and energy dynamic.

Challenges and Perspectives

The exploitation of natural gas in Central Africa is not without challenges. Environmental and social concerns require stringent regulations to minimize negative impacts on the environment and local communities. Additionally, investing in research and development for cleaner energy technologies is crucial to ensuring a sustainable transition.

Solutions to the Challenges

To overcome these obstacles, several strategies can be considered, including:

  • Sustainable Development: Promoting responsible extraction and production practices to minimize environmental impact. This includes using clean technologies and implementing strict emissions regulations.
  • Education and Awareness: Informing local communities about the advantages of natural gas compared to traditional energy sources. This can foster greater social acceptance of energy projects.

 

The CABEF team