Oil and Gas Programme

Africa possesses significant oil and gas resources, with approximately 125 billion barrels of proven crude oil reserves and 18 trillion cubic metres of natural gas. These resources have an important role to play in addressing Africa’s persistent energy access and energy security challenges, supporting industrialization, economic development and intra-African trade.

Africa’s energy policy promotes a balanced and diversified energy mix to respond to increasing energy demand and supply gap. The continent is accelerating investment in renewable and other clean energy sources, but the sustainable development and utilization of oil and gas remain an integral part of Africa’s energy agenda, while ensuring alignment with environmental and climate objectives.

The AFREC Oil and Gas Programme therefore supports AU Member States in maximizing the developmental benefits of Africa’s oil and gas resources through coordinated continental policy, market development, stronger resource governance, investment promotion and environmentally responsible development.

Scope of the AFREC Oil and Gas Programme

1. Promote sustainable development of the African oil and gas sector to contribute to the continent’s economic development, energy security and environmental goals.
2. Coordinate the harmonisation of continental policies for the oil and gas sector, while ensuring that the development of the sector contributes to a just and equitable energy transition.
3. Develop policies, strategies and action plans for the expansion of Africa’s domestic oil and gas market, creating opportunities for increased cross-border trade in crude oil, petroleum products and natural gas.
4. Coordinate advisory and technical support to AU Member States to strengthen individual and institutional capacities in oil and gas resource governance and management.
5. Undertake advocacy on the African Union’s position on oil and gas and build strategic partnerships to promote investment, technology, capacity development and sustainable growth of Africa’s energy sector.