In a move considered a qualitative leap in regional and energy cooperation, King Mohammed VI and Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani announced during their meeting at the Royal Palace in Casablanca their “commitment to developing strategic projects to connect the two neighboring countries and coordinate their contributions within the framework of royal initiatives in Africa, particularly the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline.”
This massive project, which aims to connect 16 African countries to Europe via Morocco, is one of the most significant energy initiatives on the continent. But can this dream become a reality by 2025? What are the challenges it faces?
Mauritania Officially Joins the Project
Mauritania has officially become part of this ambitious project, according to a statement from the Moroccan Royal Cabinet. The project, which will pass through 16 African countries, aims to ensure energy security for African nations before heading to Europe via Spain. But what practical steps have been taken so far? How will this project, with an estimated total cost of $26 billion, be financed?
Senegal: The Gateway to the Project
Senegal, which has strong political and economic ties with Morocco, is the first country to actively engage in the project. The Senegalese Agency for the Promotion of Investments and Major Works (Apix) and the Senegalese Gas Network (Rgs Sa) announced the signing of an agreement to launch the works, including the creation of a gas pipeline and the relocation of populations affected by expropriations. But what mechanisms will ensure the success of this operation? How will the social and environmental challenges associated with the project be addressed?
China: A Strategic Partner in the Project
Before Senegal’s involvement, China announced its readiness to supply the project with high-quality steel through Jingye British Steel, a subsidiary of the Jingye Group. This announcement came after Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch’s visit to Beijing, where he invited China to participate in the project. But what benefits will China gain from this cooperation? How will the quality of materials used in constructing the 5,660-kilometer pipeline be ensured?
Morocco and Nigeria: The Beginning and the End
Morocco, for its part, announced that 2025 will mark the start of the project’s implementation, with the launch of the dedicated project company (SVP), which will be responsible for construction, operation, and maintenance. Gas transportation agreements with Nigeria, Senegal, and Mauritania will also be signed. But what steps have already been taken to ensure the success of this project? How will the technical and financial challenges be addressed?
Nigeria: The Backbone of the Project
Nigeria, Africa’s largest gas producer, has stated that it is in an excellent position to execute the project. The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPCL) confirmed that preparations for the project have reached the stage of land acquisition and population relocation. But what challenges does Nigeria face in this regard? How will the continuity of gas supplies through the pipeline be ensured?
Conclusion: Will the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline Become a Reality by 2025?
While the initial steps seem promising, the project still faces numerous challenges, including funding, technical, and social issues. However, the cooperation between African and international countries, such as China, demonstrates a strong will to realize this dream. But will this determination be enough to turn this dream into reality by 2025? Only time will tell.
