Africa Atlantic Gas Pipeline: A mega-project for the energy security and development of the continent
The Africa Atlantic Gas Pipeline (AAGP) is moving towards a decisive phase with a gradual commissioning programme starting in 2029, as announced by the Director General of the Moroccan National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM), Amina Benkhadra. Over 6,000 kilometres long, this ambitious project aims to supply gas to almost 400 million people and contribute significantly to the electrification of the African continent.
During a briefing in Washington organised by the US think tank Atlantic Council, Benkhadra emphasised the relevance of the GAA within the shared vision of the King of Morocco, Mohammed VI, and the President of Nigeria. This mega-project, which forms part of a strategy of regional cooperation and sustainable development, is consolidating itself as a fundamental infrastructure for the energy security of West Africa, Europe and the Atlantic area in general.
Speaking to diplomats, energy experts and private sector representatives, the director of ONHYM emphasised that the gas pipeline will not only respond to the continent's energy challenges, but will also strengthen the economic ties between the nations it passes through. In addition, Benkhadra stressed that negotiations with major international operators and financial institutions are at an advanced stage, guaranteeing the technical and economic viability of the project.
The GAA not only represents a step forward in energy supply, but is also emerging as a lever for industrial development. Its infrastructure will facilitate the creation of new production centres, stimulating local economies and favouring the exploitation and transformation of natural resources, especially in the critical minerals sector.
Benkhadra emphasised that, in a context where access to energy remains limited in several regions of Africa, this gas pipeline will be a key catalyst for the sustainable development of the continent. With 40% of the African population without access to electricity, the GAA becomes a structural solution to close this energy gap.
A mega-project with geopolitical implications
For his part, the Moroccan ambassador in Washington, Youssef Amrani, placed the gas pipeline within a broader geopolitical context, emphasising its alignment with the strategy of economic integration of the African continent promoted by King Mohammed VI. He emphasised that the Royal Atlantic Initiative seeks to improve Africa's energy connectivity with the rest of the world, generating corridors of inclusive growth and sustainable development.
He also emphasised the urgency of mobilising funds and strengthening international partnerships to guarantee the continuity of the project, given the growing interest of global partners in this strategic initiative.
A promising energy future for Africa
The enthusiasm generated at the Atlantic Council briefing reflects the key role of the Africa Atlantic Gas Pipeline in the continent's energy transformation and its relevance in global energy cooperation. With this initiative, Morocco reaffirms its commitment to a more connected, more integrated and more energy-sovereign Africa, consolidating itself as a central player in regional and international energy security.