Morocco Set to Launch Bids for the Construction of the Africa Atlantic Gas Pipeline in 2025

In a significant step towards enhancing energy cooperation and infrastructure development in West Africa, Morocco is preparing to launch the first round of bids for the construction of the Africa Atlantic Gas Pipeline in 2025. This ambitious project, which will connect Nigeria to Morocco through 16 African countries, is gaining momentum with several key developments.

Background and Scope of the Project

The Africa Atlantic Gas Pipeline, a vision spearheaded by King Mohammed VI of Morocco and former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, and now supported by current Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, aims to create a robust energy network across West Africa. The pipeline will span approximately 6,000 kilometers, with a capacity to transport 15 to 30 billion cubic meters of gas annually, benefiting around 400 million people across 13 countries[1].

Recent Developments and Agreements

A recent ministerial meeting organized by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Abuja, Nigeria, marked a crucial milestone. During this meeting, the ministers adopted the intergovernmental agreement (IGA) and the Host Government Agreement (HGA) for the Africa Atlantic Gas Pipeline. The agreements were finalized after several rounds of negotiations held in Rabat, Marrakech, and Abidjan[1].

Leila Benali, Morocco's Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, led the Moroccan delegation at the Abuja meeting. She reaffirmed Morocco's commitment to the project, emphasizing its strategic importance in fostering economic prosperity and energy security in Africa. The project is not just about a pipeline but a political and economic initiative aimed at leveraging Africa's resources to develop industrial infrastructure and create jobs[1].

Upcoming Bids and Construction Plans

In 2025, Morocco will launch the first tenders for the construction of the gas pipeline. This phase will specifically focus on connecting Senegal and Mauritania to Morocco, enabling these countries to become exporters of hydrocarbons to Europe through the Morocco-Europe gas pipeline[5").

Table: Key Phases and Objectives of the Africa Atlantic Gas Pipeline

Economic and Energy Implications

The Africa Atlantic Gas Pipeline is more than just an infrastructure project; it is a strategic initiative to harness Africa's energy resources. By connecting the gas-rich regions of West Africa to European markets, the pipeline will provide a modern and reliable access to energy for millions of people. This project aligns with the global recognition that Africa holds significant potential for productive capacity in the coming decades, particularly in the energy sector[1].

List: Benefits of the Africa Atlantic Gas Pipeline

• Enhance energy security and stability in West Africa
• Facilitate the export of hydrocarbons from Senegal and Mauritania to Europe
• Promote economic development and job creation in the region
• Develop industrial infrastructure across West Africa
• Provide access to modern energy for approximately 400 million people
• Strengthen regional and international cooperation in energy affairs

Future Outlook

The official signing of the intergovernmental agreement is scheduled to take place during the next ECOWAS Summit in December 2024 or early in the first quarter of 2025. This ceremony will mark a significant step forward in the project's implementation. With the support of various partners and the commitment of both Morocco and Nigeria, the Africa Atlantic Gas Pipeline is poised to become a landmark project in African energy cooperation and development[1][2][4].

In conclusion, the launch of the bids for the Africa Atlantic Gas Pipeline in 2025 represents a major advancement in regional energy cooperation and infrastructure development. As this project progresses, it is expected to have a profound impact on the economic and energy landscapes of West Africa, solidifying the region's position as a key player in global energy markets.