By Solomon Ekanem
The future of Africa’s most ambitious liquefied natural gas (LNG) venture has been thrown into uncertainty following ExxonMobil’s decision to suspend its involvement in Mozambique’s $30 billion Rovuma LNG project. The move has sparked renewed concerns over investor confidence and the viability of long-term energy development in the region.
A Project in Peril
The Rovuma LNG project, poised to become the continent’s largest LNG export hub, has faced persistent delays due to the ongoing Islamist insurgency in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province. Since 2017, the conflict has claimed over 6,000 lives and displaced more than one million people, creating a volatile environment that continues to deter foreign investment.
ExxonMobil’s withdrawal from a scheduled appearance alongside President Daniel Chapo—where it was expected to reaffirm its commitment—has heightened fears that the project may not reach a final investment decision anytime soon.
Interlinked Challenges
The Rovuma LNG development is closely tied to the progress of TotalEnergies’ nearby $20 billion Mozambique LNG project, which shares critical infrastructure. Although TotalEnergies recently lifted a four-year force majeure on its operations, the company remains cautious amid ongoing regional instability.
The French energy giant had halted its activities in 2021 following a surge in terrorist attacks. While its decision to resume work signals a tentative step forward, the fragile security situation continues to cast a long shadow over both projects.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The United Nations estimates that over 100,000 people have been displaced in 2025 alone, with nearly one million still in need of humanitarian assistance. Despite multiple military interventions—including foreign troops and private security contractors—the insurgency shows little sign of abating as it enters its eighth year.
Strategic Implications
Mozambique’s LNG ambitions, once seen as a transformative opportunity for the country’s economy, now face significant headwinds. The delays underscore how internal security challenges can derail major energy investments and stall progress toward becoming a leading gas exporter in Africa.
As global energy markets evolve and competition intensifies, Mozambique’s ability to stabilize Cabo Delgado and reassure investors will be critical to unlocking its vast natural gas potential.