The African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference will showcase the high-impact exploration drilling campaigns shaping the continent’s energy future

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, February 5, 2025/APO Group/ — 

Africa’s oil and gas industry continues to attract investment as new discoveries and frontier basins drive exploration activity across the continent. In 2025, several high-impact projects will shape the sector, offering opportunities for resource development and economic growth. As the continent’s premier oil and gas event, African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies 2025 will provide critical insights into ongoing and upcoming exploration activities, including high-impact drilling campaigns in Namibia, Angola, Libya and more. With discussions centered on investment, infrastructure and regulatory frameworks, the conference will highlight how these projects can drive economic growth and energy security.

TotalEnergies’ Venus Appraisal – Namibia

Following the massive Venus-1 discovery in 2022, TotalEnergies is intensifying its appraisal efforts in Namibia’s Block 2913B. The Venus prospect is believed to contain one of the largest oil accumulations ever found in sub-Saharan Africa. In 2025, additional drilling and well testing will help confirm reserve estimates and guide development planning. If commercial viability is established, Venus could be a game-changer for Namibia, attracting significant investment in infrastructure and production facilities.

Azule Energy’s Exploration Wells – Angola

Azule Energy, a joint venture between bp and Eni, is ramping up exploration efforts in Angola as the country seeks to sustain and expand its oil production. In 2025, the company plans to drill multiple offshore wells across its deepwater blocks, focusing on high-potential prospects in the Lower Congo and Kwanza Basins. With Angola aiming to attract new investment and maintain output amid maturing fields, Azule Energy’s drilling campaign is expected to play a crucial role in identifying new reserves and extending the country’s production horizon. Success in these wells could reinforce Angola’s position as a leading oil producer in Africa while driving further exploration interest in its offshore acreage.

Africa Oil Corp.’s Deepwater Activity – Nigeria 

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) will continue working with governments and the oil companies to attract foreign investment

In 2025, Nigeria’s offshore drilling activity will include continued development in key deepwater fields. Africa Oil Corp. is advancing drilling plans at the Akpo and Egina fields, following a successful infill production well at Akpo. Meanwhile, a new seismic acquisition at the Agbami field, completed in late 2024, is being processed ahead of a scheduled drilling campaign in 2026. These efforts aim to enhance production and optimize resource recovery in Nigeria’s offshore sector.

ReconAfrica’s Onshore Drilling – Namibia

While offshore exploration dominates headlines, onshore activity in Namibia’s Kavango Basin is also drawing attention. Canadian company ReconAfrica is continuing its drilling program in 2025, aiming to prove the existence of a working petroleum system in this frontier basin. Early results have been inconclusive, but new wells could provide the breakthrough needed to confirm hydrocarbon potential. Success here would open up a vast new exploration play, adding to Africa’s onshore energy resources.

Eni’s Sirte Basin Program – Libya

Eni remains committed to expanding its upstream operations in Libya. In 2025, the Italian major plans to drill new offshore wells in the Mediterranean, focusing on previously identified prospects with high hydrocarbon potential. The company has confirmed shallow, deepwater and ultra-deep offshore plays and currently has four exploration wells in its 2025 pipeline, including an offshore drilling campaign in the Sirte Basin by the end of the year.

“Oil and gas is the lifeblood of our civilization, therefore exploration is the arteries and veins. We need to continue promoting policies that can fast-track exploration. The African Energy Chamber (AEC) will continue working with governments and the oil companies to attract foreign investment, streamline project implementation, and reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks. We will see results at AEW: Invest in African Energies in Cape Town South with G20 leaders participating for the first time,” stated NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

The Namibia International Energy Conference 2025, held in Windhoek, will gather together key stakeholders to drive industry growth, investment and strategic dialogue

WINDHOEK, Namibia, February 5, 2025/APO Group/ — 

With less than three months to go, momentum is building for the Namibia International Energy Conference 2025 (NIEC), set to take place from 23 – 25 April 2025 at the Windhoek Country Club Resort, under the theme “Leading the Way: Becoming an Energy Hub with In-Country Value”. Now in its 7th edition, NIEC is Namibia’s most established and influential energy platform, bringing together key stakeholders to drive industry growth, investment, and strategic discussions. 

NIEC2025 will convene government officials, industry leaders, investors, and the broader business community to discuss and shape Namibia’s growing role as an energy hub. The conference serves as a strategic platform for investment facilitation, technical insights, and high-level policy discussions, ensuring that Namibia remains at the forefront of Africa’s energy transformation. 

A Proven Platform for Energy Investment & Industry Partnerships

Founded by RichAfrica Consultancy, NIEC has grown into the premier platform where leading companies announce partnerships, provide exploration updates, and drive new investments in Namibia’s energy sector. Having welcomed over 2,200 attendees from 46 countries in previous editions, the conference remains Namibia’s premier platform for industry engagement.

Endorsed by the Ministry of Mines and Energy and supported by the African Energy Chamber, NIEC continues to contribute to Namibia’s energy transformation, attracting major industry players. Chevron has joined as an exclusive Diamond Sponsor, while Shell and RMB Namibia have reaffirmed their commitment as Sapphire Sponsors. Other confirmed sponsors include Total Energies, Woodside Energy, SONILS and SBM Offshore, reinforcing Namibia’s growing role in the global energy landscape. 

Strategic Industry Intelligence & Technical Sessions 

NIEC 2025 will focus on advancing Namibia’s energy ambitions through investment, sustainability and local content. With Namibia’s Upstream Local Content Policy now in effect, discussions will explore its potential impact on industry growth, workforce development, and supply chain integration. 

The conference will feature strategic industry intelligence sessions and technical presentations covering natural gas monetization, the role of critical metals in the energy transition, renewable energy expansion, energy infrastructure & logistics as well as financing Namibia’s energy future.

A High-Level Platform for Business & International Collaboration

With growing interest from international investors, local industry leaders and service companies, NIEC 2025 will welcome energy leaders from across the globe. Beyond discussions, the event will feature an exhibition showcasing innovations in energy technology and infrastructure, B2B networking sessions, and investment roundtables designed to facilitate deal-making and business growth. 

In addition to high-level discussions, NIEC 2025 will host initiatives aimed at industry engagement, including the Future Energy Leaders Initiative, which provides mentorship and networking for young professionals in the energy sector. 

Secure Your Spot at Namibia’s Leading Energy Conference

With demand for participation growing each year, early registration is highly recommended to secure a seat at this high-impact event. Energy professionals, investors, and policymakers looking to be part of Namibia’s energy transformation should not miss this exclusive opportunity.  For more information on the conference, visit www.NIEConference.com. Stay updated by following #NIEC2025 on social media. 

Join the leaders shaping the future of Namibia’s energy sector.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

The report also stresses the importance of African institutions taking the lead in changing global risk perceptions and supporting innovative financial solutions to de-risk projects and secure long-term investments

NEW YORK, United States of America, February 5, 2025/APO Group/ — 

The Global Africa Business Initiative (GABI) (www.GABI.unglobalcompact.org) issued its Unstoppable Africa 2024 Executive Summary today, shedding light on transformative strategies and solutions to reshape Africa’s financial narrative and accelerate economic growth.

The report highlights GABI’s call for the development of an inclusive financing model to address Africa’s unique challenges, focusing on concessional financing, attracting private sector investment and mobilizing domestic resources as essential mechanisms to unlock the continent’s potential. The report also stresses the importance of African institutions taking the lead in changing global risk perceptions and supporting innovative financial solutions to de-risk projects and secure long-term investments.  

In its third year, GABI’s annual flagship event, Unstoppable Africa, has firmly established itself as the premier Africa-focused event in New York during the United Nations General Assembly high-level opening week, drawing interest and participation from global leaders. 

Sanda Ojiambo, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and CEO of the UN Global Compact said, “The GABI 2024 Executive Summary captures the transformative outcomes of the highly successful ‘Unstoppable Africa’ event, reflecting the groundbreaking solutions and impactful discussions that transpired. This event has played a crucial role in bringing together key stakeholders to discuss and align on these transformative strategies.   

“By highlighting key initiatives and partnerships, this report underscores our commitment to positioning Africa at the center of global economic transformation. It is not just a reflection of our progress but a call to action for continued collaboration and ambition. We believe that by aligning with the aspirations of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063, we can unlock the full potential of Africa and contribute to a prosperous future for all.” 

A Landmark Event 

The “Unstoppable Africa” event was held on 25-26 September 2024 on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.  With over 4,000 participants, including 1,545 in person and 2,531 online, the event drew notable figures including six Heads of State and Government from Barbados, Côte D’Ivoire, DRC, Eswatini, the Netherlands, and Poland, along with 14 Government Ministers from 13 countries. 

Key figures from the global private sector, top business leaders, and icons from the sports, music, and creative industries also spoke at and attended the conference.  

Key Findings of the GABI 2024 Executive Summary      

The report focuses on significant achievements in the energy sector, such as the Mission 300 initiative, which aims to provide clean energy access to 300 million Africans by 2030. It highlights successful examples from Togo, Mauritania, and Ghana, where distributed renewable energy solutions such as mini-grids are significantly expanding energy access to rural and underserved communities. The vital role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Africa’s energy transition is stressed, along with the need to empower these enterprises by bridging gaps in finance and climate action knowledge. 

In the realm of digital transformation, the report accentuates the continent’s rapid technological adoption and youthful population as key drivers for economic growth. It focuses on comprehensive digital upskilling programs that are equipping African youth with the necessary skills to thrive in a digital economy. The report  highlights the launch of Itana, Africa’s first Digital Economic Zone where global and Pan-African companies can incorporate online, operate remotely, and access the African talent pool and market. 

By highlighting key initiatives and partnerships, this report underscores our commitment to positioning Africa at the center of global economic transformation

The creative industries are identified as vital economic drivers. The report highlights the potential of Africa’s vibrant fashion, film, music, and entertainment sectors to deliver jobs, boost tourism, and build the African brand.

In the sports sector, the report states the need for modern infrastructure and the establishment of continental leagues to enhance economic growth, social cohesion, and cultural diplomacy. It spotlights initiatives like the Queens of the Continent Foundation and the NBA Africa Startup Accelerator Award, which are creating opportunities for young athletes and entrepreneurs. 

Core Themes 

Unstoppable Africa focused on five themes: 

1. Energy Access and Transition: Public-private partnerships, policy frameworks, and blended finance were emphasized as keys to clean energy solutions. 
2. Inclusive Growth and Trade: Discussions on reshaping Africa’s financial narrative stressed the need for private investment and the advancement of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). 
3. Digital Transformation: Bridging the digital divide and equipping youth with digital skills were identified as priorities. The progress of the UNDP Timbuktoo Initiative was celebrated. 
4. Creative Industries: Africa’s cultural sectors were recognized as essential to both economic growth and global influence. 
5. Sports: Calls for modern sports infrastructure and continental leagues marked their potential to drive economic and social impact. 

GABI 2025  

This year, GABI will convene the 4th edition of Unstoppable Africa on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly at Marriott Marquis Hotel in Mid-Town Manhattan, New York City on Sunday and Monday 21-22 September 2025. Once again, the convening will bring together the private sector, governments, policymakers, global and regional stakeholders to develop actionable frameworks for Africa’s development.       

Additionally, GABI plans on hosting several GABI Bridges events throughout the year, including a side event at the Africa CEO Forum on May 12 -13 Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.  These engagements will provide focused discussions on specific topics, building up to the flagship forum in September.  

​​For more information on the GABI and Unstoppable Africa 2024, visit https://GABI.unglobalcompact.org/  

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Global Africa Business Initiative.