The global push for a low-carbon economy has put coal under intense scrutiny, with industrialized nations citing environmental and health concerns.
However, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) is making a strong case for coal and fossil fuels as essential to Africa’s energy security and economic growth.
Speaking at the Southern Africa Oil & Gas Conference 2025, NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC, underscored the importance of financing coal and fossil fuels to unlock Africa’s full economic potential.
“We should never apologize for harnessing our fossil fuel resources to drive growth and improve lives.
“We need to finance coal and unlock its potential for Africa’s benefit. Dig, baby, dig!”
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC
Ayuk acknowledged the increasing calls for Africa to transition to renewable energy but emphasized that the continent’s energy needs require a balanced approach that includes coal, oil, and gas.
He pointed to the recent energy developments in Libya and Algeria, which are exporting more gas to Europe than ever before, as evidence of Africa’s crucial role in the global energy market.
While acknowledging the global push for a low-carbon future, Ayuk stressed that Africa’s developmental needs are far from the same as those of industrialized nations.
“Our continent requires a balanced approach that incorporates all energy sources, including fossil fuels.”
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC
His comments highlight the stark contrast between the energy transition priorities of advanced economies and the energy access needs of developing regions like Africa, where millions still lack reliable access to electricity.
Growing Energy Potential Across Africa
Ayuk’s speech also highlighted the growing energy potential within Africa, underscoring how emerging oil and gas projects across the continent are positioning Africa as a key player in the global energy market.
He pointed to the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), a 1,443-kilometer pipeline set to transport 246,000 barrels of crude oil per day, as a transformative infrastructure project that will drive economic growth in the region.
“The East African Crude Oil Pipeline will enable the transportation of crude oil across East Africa, positioning the region for increased participation in the global energy market.”
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC
This project is set to significantly boost East Africa’s contribution to global energy production, marking a significant milestone in the region’s energy sector.
Furthermore, Ayuk pointed to the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim project in Mauritania and Senegal as another testament to Africa’s growing energy potential.
This liquefied natural gas (LNG) project is expected to unlock substantial resources, generating both economic growth and energy security for West Africa.
He also highlighted Southern Africa’s contribution to the continent’s oil production, with an estimated 6.7 million barrels of oil produced daily, and an expected 2 million-barrel-per-day increase in the next five years.
Challenging Double Standards in Global Energy Policy
In his address, Ayuk also took a strong stand against the double standards surrounding natural gas. “It is unacceptable that natural gas is considered ‘green’ in Europe but not in Africa,” he said.
This stark contrast reflects the disparity in energy policy and perception between developed and developing nations.
While European countries increasingly view natural gas as a cleaner alternative to coal, Ayuk argued that Africa should also be able to benefit from natural gas without facing undue restrictions or biases.
“We must challenge these double standards and ensure that our energy sector receives the support it deserves.”
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC
Ayuk emphasized that Africa must continue to advocate for its energy interests on the global stage.
“We must never apologize for harnessing our fossil fuel resources to drive growth, improve lives, and create a brighter future for Africa.”
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC
His words serve as a reminder that Africa’s energy strategy must remain grounded in the realities of the continent’s development needs, balancing the pursuit of clean energy with the imperative to unlock the full potential of its natural resources.
As global energy dynamics continue to evolve, the debate over coal and fossil fuels will likely intensify.
For Africa, however, Ayuk’s message is clear: coal, oil, and gas remain vital drivers of economic development, energy security, and job creation, and the continent must be allowed to harness these resources to fuel its growth.
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