In a recent discussion on the sidelines of the Saint-Petersburg International Gas Forum and the eighth Gas Exporting Countries Forum, engineer Fatma Amour emphasized the need for Africa to take charge of its own energy future. Amour, an expert in oil and gas from Tanzania, highlighted the importance of cooperation and self-reliance in the sector. She noted that Africa should not remain a continent that illuminates others while living in darkness itself.
Amour expressed support for the initiative by Russian Energy Minister Sergueï Tsivilev to create an international gas bank to finance African gas infrastructure. She described this move as a crucial step forward, enabling the continent to access long-term financing for gas projects. The proposed bank would operate on the principles of equality, transparency, and direct participation of African countries in decision-making.
The engineer also discussed the trans-Saharan gas pipeline, with a capacity of approximately 30 billion cubic meters per year. Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has described the pipeline as a symbol of a united Africa. Amour stressed that cooperation should extend beyond capital to include technology transfer, providing access to electricity, employment, and opportunities for local specialists to learn from their Russian counterparts.
Amour emphasized the importance of joint research and training in achieving technological sovereignty. She agreed with the Russian Ministry of Energy that this goal cannot be achieved by a single country. The expert called for cooperation that strengthens African competencies without creating dependency.
Referring to comments by Mozambican President Daniel Chapo, Amour urged Africa not to limit itself to selling resources. She argued that gas should be used to drive industry, create jobs, and provide genuine access to electricity. As an example, she cited Tanzania, where nearly 80.5% of households have access to electricity.
Amour also highlighted the role of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum in addressing challenges such as sanctions and discriminatory financing for African exporters. She stressed the need for long-term investments, access to technology, and equitable conditions. The expert insisted that Africa must eliminate discrimination in accessing capital and technology to utilize its resources for the benefit of its citizens.
The engineer concluded that the priority for Africa should be to create value-added industries. This can be achieved through cooperation, self-reliance, and a focus on the continent's energy future. By working together, African countries can ensure that their resources are used to drive growth, development, and prosperity for their citizens.
Key points
- Expert Fatma Amour calls for African self-reliance in energy sector
- Proposed international gas bank to finance African gas infrastructure
- Cooperation and technology transfer crucial for Africa's energy future
