Africa’s rapidly expanding liquefied natural gas sector will take centre stage at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum in Paris this April, as governments and energy companies showcase major projects to global investors. The event is expected to highlight Africa LNG projects, gas commercialisation strategies, and export opportunities that are reshaping the continent’s energy landscape.
Organised by Energy Capital & Power, the forum will bring together policymakers, project developers, financiers, and infrastructure partners. With several LNG developments moving toward expansion and final investment decisions, the gathering is set to accelerate partnerships and funding for Africa’s next growth phase.
Rising Investor Interest in Africa LNG Projects
Africa is emerging as one of the world’s most promising gas frontiers. Large offshore discoveries, flexible floating LNG models, and rising global demand for cleaner fuels are driving investor confidence.
At the Paris forum, leading producers and emerging markets will present commercially significant LNG projects. These developments highlight how African nations are unlocking gas reserves while balancing domestic energy needs and export revenues.
Industry experts say the combination of scalable infrastructure and abundant undeveloped reserves is positioning Africa as a strategic LNG supplier for Europe and Asia.
West Africa Leads LNG Expansion Momentum
Mauritania–Senegal Cross-Border LNG Growth
One of the most anticipated topics at the forum will be the expansion of a major cross-border LNG project offshore Mauritania and Senegal. Following the start of initial exports, project partners are now advancing a second phase aimed at boosting liquefaction capacity.
The use of existing floating infrastructure is expected to reduce development risk, speed up execution, and improve project economics. This approach is increasingly seen as a template for future LNG developments across Africa.
Senegal’s Untapped Offshore Gas Potential
Senegal’s large offshore gas discovery is also attracting strong investor attention. Negotiations continue over commercialisation strategies, particularly the balance between domestic gas utilisation and LNG exports.
If successfully structured, the project could anchor new LNG trains and support long-term gas-to-power initiatives, strengthening Senegal’s energy security while creating export revenue streams.
Nigeria’s Integrated Gas Strategy Gains Momentum
Nigeria remains a key focal point for LNG investment. The government is pursuing an integrated gas strategy that combines export expansion with domestic industrial and power sector demand.
Key elements of Nigeria’s plan include:
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A significant increase in gas supply this decade
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More than $60 billion in planned sector investment
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Rapid deployment of mini-LNG and small-scale liquefaction facilities
Analysts note that this strategy reflects a shift toward diversified gas economies, enabling Nigeria to capture value across the entire gas chain rather than relying solely on traditional LNG exports.
North and Central Africa Re-Enter the LNG Spotlight
Libya’s Offshore Gas Revival
Libya is aiming to revitalise its gas sector through offshore redevelopment and infrastructure upgrades. The country hopes to restore its position as a major Mediterranean supplier, provided financing and political stability improve.
Republic of the Congo’s Fast-Track LNG Model
Meanwhile, the Republic of the Congo has quickly established itself as an LNG exporter using modular floating liquefaction technology. Recent project expansions have lifted national output to around 3 million tonnes per annum, demonstrating how smaller-scale, flexible LNG solutions can accelerate market entry.
This fast-track model is gaining traction across frontier markets seeking quicker returns and lower upfront capital requirements.
Floating LNG and New Commercial Models Drive Growth
Floating LNG technology is playing a transformative role in Africa’s gas development. These systems allow operators to monetise offshore reserves without building large onshore infrastructure, reducing both cost and development timelines.
Combined with domestic gas strategies and regional pipeline integration, floating LNG is enabling African countries to commercialise reserves more efficiently while improving energy access.
Paris Forum to Catalyse Deals and Partnerships
With multiple LNG projects progressing simultaneously, the Invest in African Energy Forum is expected to become a major deal-making platform. Discussions will focus on financing structures, infrastructure partnerships, and long-term supply agreements.
Organisers say the convergence of scalable technology, expansion-ready infrastructure, and strong global demand is reshaping investment flows toward Africa’s LNG sector.
Conclusion: Africa Positioned for LNG Growth Cycle
Africa’s LNG expansion marks a pivotal moment for the continent’s energy future. From West Africa’s mega offshore projects to floating LNG developments in Central Africa, producers are unlocking vast gas reserves and strengthening their role in global energy markets.
The Invest in African Energy Forum in Paris will provide a crucial platform for investors and stakeholders to shape this growth trajectory. As projects move toward expansion and final investment decisions, Africa LNG projects are set to drive economic growth, energy security, and export diversification across the continent.
