According to the International Energy Agency, global natural gas demand reached a high in 2024, driven largely by economic expansion, with positive outlook for LNG growth in 2025.

For South Africa, whose current power generation structure is dominated by coal, that means including natural gas can help steady the supply of energy while renewable technology continues to mature.

At present, considering the number of promising energy projects currently under way and the numerous trade opportunities arising, from natural gas production in particular, I am compelled to emphasize the need for cross-border cooperation among all the nations and oil and gas producers involved in these efforts, which will be vital if we are to achieve true prosperity throughout the continent.