During the Russian Energy Week, President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea strongly endorsed the Central African Pipeline System (CAPS) project, emphasizing its potential to transform the energy landscape in Central Africa. This endorsement came as part of broader discussions on energy cooperation between Russia and Equatorial Guinea, marking a significant moment for this ambitious regional initiative.

The CAPS project, initiated by CABEF (Central Africa Business and Energy Forum) with the support of APPO (African Petroleum Producers Organization), has seen previous endorsement from President Idriss Deby Itno during CABEF 2023 in Ndjamena, Chad. Additionally, the current host of CABEF 2024 in Libreville, Gabon, President Clotaire Oligui Nguema, has fully endorsed the CAPS initiative.

The Central African Pipeline System aims to create an integrated network for transporting natural gas, car fuels, and LPG across the CEMAC (Central African Economic and Monetary Community) region. With proven natural gas reserves of over 20 trillion cubic feet in the participating countries, CAPS has the potential to:

  • Stimulate industrial development
  • Provide cost-effective power generation
  • Improve energy access in remote areas
  • Reduce carbon emissions by promoting cleaner fuels

President Obiang Nguema’s endorsement of CAPS at the high-profile Russian Energy Week underscores the project’s growing significance on the global energy stage. It also signals a strong commitment from one of the region’s key oil and gas producers to the development of cross-border energy infrastructure. Russian President Vladimir Putin noted during the forum that Russia is keen on expanding its energy cooperation with African nations, viewing projects like CAPS as opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships.

To advance the project’s development and secure necessary partnerships and funding, a Strategic Partnerships and Funding Committee has been established.  CABEF Chairwoman Nathalie Lum, and APPO Secretary General Dr. Omar Farouk in a conjoint letter appointed Former Minister of Hydrocarbons of Equatorial Guinea, Gabriel Obiang Lima as the President. This committee will play a crucial role in:

  • Fostering strategic partnerships with international investors and energy companies
  • Securing the estimated $10 billion in capital expenditure required for the project
  • Overseeing the project’s 5-year construction timeline
  • Ensuring alignment with regional and international energy goals

With strong political backing and strategic leadership in place, CAPS is well-positioned to transform the energy landscape of Central Africa and beyond. The project promises to play a crucial role in ending energy poverty in Central Africa by 2030, while also contributing to regional integration and economic development. As the initiative moves forward, the coming months will be critical for solidifying partnerships, securing funding, and beginning the implementation phase. The CAPS project continues to gain momentum, attracting international interest and positioning itself as a key player in Central Africa’s energy future.

The CABEF Team