Egypt, Uganda, Senegal, Angola and Mauritania were at the forefront of transformative energy infrastructure projects in 2024, each playing a crucial role in shaping the continent’s energy future. With the pressing need to overcome energy access gaps, foster industrialization and ensure affordability and sustainability, these nations are taking bold steps to maximize energy production and position the continent as a global energy powerhouse.
Egypt Advances Its First Nuclear Facility
Egypt celebrated a milestone in constructing its first nuclear power plant, the 4.8 GW Dabaa Nuclear Power Plant, with the delivery of a core catcher for the fourth reactor unit in December 2024. Developed in partnership with Russia’s Rosatom, the $30 billion project is slated to begin operations in 2028. Once operational, Dabaa will enhance grid stability and provide cleaner, reliable energy, making it Africa’s second nuclear project after South Africa’s Koeberg Power Station.
Uganda’s EACOP Reaches Construction Milestone
The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) achieved 47.1% completion in November 2024. Stretching 1,443 km, the pipeline will transport crude oil from Uganda’s Lake Albert fields, which hold 6.5 billion barrels of oil, to international markets via Tanzania. Operated by a consortium including TotalEnergies and China National Offshore Corporation, EACOP is expected to start operations in 2025, unlocking East Africa’s oil potential and driving regional economic growth.
Angola’s Cabinda Refinery Progresses
Angola’s Cabinda Refinery reached 60% completion in October 2024, moving closer to its estimated start-up date of April 2025. Managed by Sonangol and Gemcorp, the refinery will process 30,000 barrels per day in its initial phase, with plans to double capacity. The facility is expected to meet 10% of Angola’s domestic refining needs by mid-2025, dramatically reducing the country’s dependency on imports.
Senegal and Mauritania Near GTA Start-Up
The Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project, located on the maritime border of Senegal and Mauritania, achieved 95% completion in July 2024, after receiving its FPSO unit in June. Representing a $4.8 billion investment, the project aims to produce 2.3 million tons of LNG annually starting in early 2025, tapping into 15 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves and positioning the MSGBC region as a key player in the global gas market.
Senegal Completes the Sangomar Oil Project
Senegal reached a significant milestone in 2024 with the completion of the Sangomar Oil Project, achieving first oil production in June. Developed in partnership with Woodside Energy, the $5.2 billion project produces 100,000 barrels of oil per day and targets an estimated resource base of 630 million barrels, marking a major step in Senegal’s energy sector development. These projects underscore Africa’s growing role in the global energy landscape, reflecting progress in addressing infrastructure gaps and advancing the continent’s energy ambitions.