The President of Mozambique stated that the country potentially could achieve liquefied natural gas (LNG) export capacity exceeding 35 million tons annually in the coming years, thereby strengthening its position in the international market.
Speaking at the 8th summit of heads of state and government of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) in Moscow, Russia, Daniel Chapo noted that projects under development in the Rovuma Basin off the coast of Cabo Delgado province in the north of the country should establish Mozambique as one of the rising players in the global energy sector.
He emphasized: 'When these facilities are fully operational in the coming years, Mozambique will be able to reach an export capacity of over 35 million tons of LNG per year, becoming one of the significant producers in the international market.'
The President recalled that when Mozambique joined GECF as an observer in 2022, the country was preparing to start exporting LNG from the Rovuma Basin. He added: 'Today, Mozambican gas is already reaching international markets, contributing to the diversification of supply sources and global energy security.'
In his speech, Chapo advocated the idea that the use of natural resources should serve not only exports but also internal economic transformation. He stated: 'We want the gas coming from the depths of our land and sea to be turned into energy that lights up Mozambique, bringing light to our schools and medical institutions, producing fertilizers that strengthen agriculture, and creating jobs for our youth and women.'
The head of state reported that the country is promoting a 'paradigm shift,' moving from a resource extraction-based economy to a model focused on value addition, industrialization, and economic sovereignty.
He also believed that the gas industry should bring direct benefits to the population through job creation, technology transfer, and business development. Daniel Chapo drew attention to the expansion of electricity access, noting that national coverage has grown from 30% in 2018 to 70% currently, while maintaining the goal of achieving universal access by 2030.
The President also advocated for a 'just, balanced, and inclusive energy transition,' arguing that international financing mechanisms must take into account the different levels of development of countries and allow for the responsible use of natural gas in addition to renewable energy sources.
To the members of GECF, Chapo proposed four priorities for the future sector: 'a more stable and predictable international gas market,' technology transfer and human resource training, investments supporting local resource processing, and an energy transition that combines environmental protection and economic development.
Mozambique has three approved natural gas exploration projects in the Rovuma Basin, which are classified as some of the largest discoveries in the world in recent decades.
