South African Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe has reaffirmed the critical role of shale gas in unlocking the country’s energy potential.
Speaking in Cape Town on Wednesday, Minister Mantashe reiterated his commitment to lifting the moratorium on shale gas exploration in South Africa, a stance he expressed at African Energy Week in Cape Town last year.
In his remarks, Mantashe pointed out that the government is exploring innovative solutions, including the use of grey water in the drilling process, to ensure the responsible development of the country’s shale gas reserves. This, he said, is part of the broader strategy to enhance South Africa’s energy capabilities and harness its natural resources.
Mantashe also turned his attention to recent offshore discoveries in Namibia, which have generated significant interest from global players such as TotalEnergies, Shell and Galp. Mantashe’s message was clear: “Drill, drill, drill.” He underscored that developing South Africa’s oil and gas resources is key to driving economic growth.
“These oil deposits are believed to stretch into South African waters and it’s imperative that the country exploits them,” he said.
To further advance the country’s hydrocarbons sector, the government has established the South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC). Minister Mantashe noted that the SANPC’s mandate is to oversee oil and gas projects, ensuring that South Africa is well-positioned to capitalize on growing global demand for these resources.
Reflecting on the creation of SANPC, Mantashe explained that the initiative aims to consolidate South Africa’s state-owned enterprises, maximizing efficiencies, streamlining the sector, reducing costs and positioning petroleum development as a central driver of economic growth.
Mantashe also stressed the importance of balancing the country’s desire to tap into its gas resources with the needs of the regional market. He pointed out that Europe’s increasing reliance on African gas supplies presents South Africa with a unique opportunity to become a key player in the global energy market.
