SA to host WEF Special Davos Meeting in 2027

Source: Government of South Africa

SA to host WEF Special Davos Meeting in 2027

Government has clarified that South Africa will host the World Economic Forum’s Special Davos Meeting in 2027, and not the World Economic Forum Africa Summit, as previously communicated.

“Government expresses its appreciation to the World Economic Forum (WEF) for selecting South Africa as the host of this gathering. South Africa stands ready and fully prepared to host a successful meeting in 2027 and to welcome delegates from across the world,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said on Monday.

 This will be the first time that the WEF Spring Davos is hosted in South Africa.

These meetings are part of the WEF’s efforts to extend its global presence beyond Davos (Switzerland) and to provide high-level platforms for dialogue on economic development, sustainability and collaboration.

“Following the successful hosting of the recent Group of Twenty (G20) Summit, the decision affirms South Africa’s proven ability to convene high-level international engagements and manage complex global events in a safe, efficient and professional manner.

“The selection reflects growing confidence in South Africa’s institutional capacity, infrastructure readiness and commitment to constructive multilateral dialogue,” the GCIS said.

Hosting the WEF Spring Davos meeting is expected to support activity in the tourism and services sectors, including hospitality, transport, logistics and related services, while reinforcing South Africa’s position as a destination for high-level international engagement and business travel.

The meeting will also strengthen South Africa’s international profile as a platform for global investment, trade and economic cooperation.

“As a premier global platform that brings together Heads of State, business leaders, civil society and thought leaders, the Spring Davos Special Meeting will provide South Africa with a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to global economic discussions, while advancing priorities of inclusive growth, sustainable development and international cooperation,” the GCIS said. – SAnews.gov.za

nosihle

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Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) Appoints APO Group Founder and Chairman Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard to its Advisory Board

Source: APO

APO Group (https://APO-opa.com), the leading, multi-award-winning, pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, is proud to announce that its Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), has been appointed as a member of the Advisory Board of the Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF).

AWIEF (www.AWIEForum.org) is a pan-African organisation dedicated to advancing women’s economic empowerment and leadership across the continent. Through its annual conference, awards, accelerator programmes, and strategic partnerships, AWIEF continues to support women founders, executives, and innovators, driving sustainable growth and inclusive development.

Each year, AWIEF convenes entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, corporate leaders, and development partners from across Africa and the diaspora for two days of high-level dialogue, innovation showcases, and strategic engagement — all focused on advancing women’s entrepreneurship and leadership. The programme includes keynote addresses, panel discussions, masterclasses, workshops, and B2B networking sessions covering leadership, innovation, trade, technology, investment, and policy.

Since its inception in 2016, the AWIEF Awards have become a powerful beacon of recognition and inspiration for women in business and leadership. More than a celebration of success, the Awards empower the next generation of innovators and changemakers, fostering a dynamic pan-African community rooted in collaboration, creativity, and measurable impact.

AWIEF’s work is supported by a broad coalition of sponsors and partners. AWIEF 2025 has been made possible through the strong support and strategic partnerships of leading organisations, including OCP Africa, Deloitte Africa, the City of Cape Town, the African Women Development Fund (AWDF), Nedbank, UNDP, UN Women, and MINT360.

The Advisory Board also brings together a distinguished group of leaders whose experience and influence elevate AWIEF’s mission. Among them are Fatma Samoura, former Secretary General of FIFA, and Awa Ndiaye-Seck, Special Representative of UN Women, both of whom contribute invaluable insight and global perspective to advance women’s leadership and entrepreneurship across Africa.

Speaking on his appointment, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard said: “I strongly believe African women should be empowered, equipped, and recognised for their contributions, innovations, and leadership. AWIEF highlights and celebrates these women, globally, in the most beautiful way. It is a powerful platform that amplifies women’s leadership and innovation across Africa. I am glad to support this mission, and joining AWIEF’s Advisory Board offers a meaningful opportunity to help drive real impact towards a more inclusive and prosperous future.”

A Franco-Gabonese entrepreneur named among the 100 Most Influential Africans in 2023 and 2024, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard serves on numerous prominent advisory boards and international committees. These include the Senior Advisory Board of the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business; the Leadership Council of the Africa Tech Festival; and the Advisory Boards of the African Energy Chamber, World Football Summit, Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), Critical Minerals Africa Group, Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa, Sports Africa Investment Summit, EurAfrican Forum, and All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). He also acts as a strategic advisor to the CEO of the Royal African Society (UK), a strategic advisor to the EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce, and a special advisor to the President of Rugby Africa. Most recently, he was appointed as a Council Member of the Africa No Filter Foundation.

Nicolas’s wholly-owned company, APO Group, is the premier award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. The company serves more than 300 clients, including Canon, Emirates, Nestlé, Western Union, UNDP, TikTok, Coca-Cola, NBA, NFL, and Marriott.

More information about Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard: http://apo-opa.co/3LCf8Vj

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

Media contact:
marie@apo-opa.com

About APO Group:
Founded in 2007, APO Group (https://APO-opa.com) is the leading award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. Renowned for our deep-rooted African expertise and expansive global perspective, we specialise in elevating the reputation and brand equity of private and public organisations across Africa. As a trusted partner, our mission is to harness the power of media, crafting bespoke strategies that drive tangible, measurable impact both on the continent and globally. 

Our commitment to excellence and innovation has been recognised with multiple prestigious awards, including a PRovoke Media Global SABRE Award and multiple PRovoke Media Africa SABRE Awards. In 2023, we were named the Leading Public Relations Firm Africa and the Leading Pan-African Communications Consultancy Africa in the World Business Outlook Awards, and the Best Public Relations and Media Consultancy Agency of the Year South Africa in 2024 and again in 2025 in the same awards. In 2025, Brands Review Magazine acknowledged us as the Leading Communications Consultancy in Africa for the second consecutive year. They also named us the Best PR Agency and the Leading Press Release Distribution Platform in Africa in 2024. Additionally, in 2025, we were honoured with the Gold distinction for Best PR Campaign and Bronze in the Special Event category at the Davos Communications Awards.

APO Group’s esteemed clientele, which includes global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, the UNDP, Network International, African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies, reflects our unparalleled ability to navigate the complex African media landscape. With a multicultural team across Africa, we offer unmatched, truly pan-African insights, expertise, and reach across the continent. APO Group is dedicated to reshaping narratives about Africa, challenging stereotypes, and bringing inspiring African stories to global audiences, with our expertise in developing and supporting public relations campaigns worldwide uniquely positioning us to amplify brand messaging, enhance reputations, and connect effectively with target audiences.

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Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026 Puts Libya’s Energy Scale, Technology and Exploration Ambitions in Focus

Source: APO – Report:

The second day of the Libya Energy & Economic Summit 2026 in Tripoli sharpened Libya’s energy narrative around scale, long-term ambition and partnership depth. From gas megaproject timelines and AI-led production optimization to renewed exploration momentum and drilling targets for 2026, discussions highlighted the breadth of Libya’s opportunity set across hydrocarbons, renewables and services.

Libya Targets 70–100 Wells in 2026

Libya’s Minister of Oil and Gas announced plans to drill between 70 and 100 oil and gas wells in 2026, reflecting growing upstream activity tied to the country’s licensing round and investment framework. The drilling strategy will be supported by $3–4 billion in anticipated annual investment flows as well as new unified drilling regulations aimed at improving safety, efficiency and coordination across the sector.

Eni Details Timeline for $8B Structures A&E Gas Development

Eni reaffirmed its commitment to Libya’s gas sector, confirming that the $8 billion Structures A&E offshore development remains on track for completion by the end of 2027. Led by Mellitah Oil & Gas – a joint venture between Eni and Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) – the project is expected to add around 750 million standard cubic feet per day of gas, supporting domestic demand while creating export volumes for Europe. Eni also highlighted progress at the Bahr Essalam gas compression project, scheduled to begin operations in early 2026.

SLB Expands AI and Digital Oilfield Deployment

Digital transformation featured prominently as SLB outlined plans to scale AI-driven production optimization and remote monitoring technologies across Libya in 2026. The company said AI-powered ESP surveillance, Lumi data platforms and intelligent stimulation programs are reshaping how mature fields are managed, while supporting Libya’s production targets and zero-flaring objectives. SLB also emphasized its focus on local training, with digital oilfield upskilling programs planned for Libyan engineers.

Mediterranean Deepwater Emerges as Strategic Exploration Focus

Libya’s Mediterranean offshore was positioned as a key frontier for future upstream growth, with the NOC highlighting deepwater exploration as central to unlocking new acreage and broadening international participation. With 11 offshore blocks included in the current licensing round and results expected in February 2026, industry leaders stressed the role of high-quality seismic data, improved subsurface understanding and shorter development timelines in strengthening the investment case for offshore Libya.

PPP Models Frame Renewable Energy Growth

Renewables discussions centered on public-private partnerships as the preferred mechanism to scale Libya’s clean energy ambitions. With a target of 4 GW of renewable capacity by 2035, speakers pointed to flagship projects such as TotalEnergies’ 500 MW Sadada solar plant as anchors for future growth. Panelists emphasized the role of solar and wind in reducing fuel consumption for power generation, while cautioning that clearer legislation and consistent regulatory frameworks will be critical to sustaining investor interest.

NESR Positions for Expanded Role in Libya

Oilfield services provider National Energy Services Reunited said it is seeking to expand its footprint in Libya, supported by more than $100 million in recently secured service contracts across North Africa. The company highlighted its regional growth strategy, technology offering and commitment to local employment through 100% national crews in Libya.

Repsol Flags Exploration-Led Growth from 2026

Delivering a video address at LEES 2026, Repsol signaled a renewed focus on exploration in Libya from 2026, positioning the country’s licensing round as a catalyst for a new growth cycle. At the El Sharara field, Repsol is targeting production of 350,000 barrels per day by end-2026, following record output in 2025, while shifting attention toward new exploration opportunities after years of limited activity.

Exploration, Expansion and the Road Ahead

Across day two of LEES 2026, discussions consistently pointed to a widening and increasingly structured energy opportunity set in Libya. With gas megaproject timelines taking shape, digital technologies reshaping production potential, renewed offshore exploration interest and clearer drilling targets for 2026, the summit positioned Libya as a market defined by scale, long-term optionality and expanding avenues for international partnership across hydrocarbons, services and renewables.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

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Africa Women Innovation & Entrepreneurship Forum Appoints Advisory Board to Drive Next Phase of Growth and Impact

Source: APO – Report:

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The Africa Women Innovation & Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) (www.AWIEForum.org) has announced the establishment of its Advisory Board, a key step in guiding the organisation’s next phase of strategic growth and long-term impact across the African continent.

The new Advisory Board brings together a distinguished group of global leaders with extensive experience in business, policy, development, media, and innovation. The Board will provide high-level strategic guidance on AWIEF’s medium- to long-term priorities, including sustainable revenue growth, institutional strengthening, governance, and the expansion of programmes that support women’s entrepreneurship and innovation in Africa.

“The establishment of the Advisory Board marks an important milestone in AWIEF’s evolution,” said Irene Ochem, Founder & CEO of AWIEF. “The collective experience, insight, and leadership of our Advisory Board members will be invaluable as we consolidate our institutional foundations and scale our impact across Africa’s entrepreneurship ecosystem.”

AWIEF Advisory Board Members

  • Fatma Samoura — Former Secretary-General, FIFA; global leader in sport, gender equity, and youth empowerment
  • Dalia Ibrahim — CEO, Nahdet Misr Publishing House; Founder & CEO, EdVentures; champion for education, innovation, and Africa’s creative economy
  • Awa Ndiaye-Seck — Former Special Representative UN Women to the African Union Commission & President, ADES-USA; expert in gender policy, economic inclusion, and sustainable development
  • Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard — Founder & Chairman, APO Group; pan-African media and communications strategist with extensive global networks; named one of the most 100 Most Influential Africans by New African magazine in 2023 and 2024

Role of the Advisory Board

The Advisory Board has been created to support AWIEF’s growth beyond its flagship annual convenings, with a strong focus on strategic programming, partnerships, research, policy influence, and ecosystem development.

Members have been selected for their exceptional leadership, cross-sector expertise, and proven commitment to advancing gender equality and women’s economic empowerment across Africa.

– on behalf of Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF).

For media enquiries:
Yolanda Mtshawu
Email: inf@awieforum.org
Phone: +27 21 002 8264

About AWIEF:
The Africa Women Innovation & Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) is a pan-African organisation dedicated to advancing women’s entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. Through high-impact programmes, strategic partnerships, and world-class convenings, AWIEF creates opportunities for women innovators and business leaders to connect, learn, and scale solutions that address Africa’s most pressing challenges.

AWIEF’s flagship Conference, Exhibition & Awards convenes entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and ecosystem builders from across Africa and around the world to catalyse growth, foster collaboration, and champion women’s leadership in business and innovation.

Website: www.AWIEForum.org

KwaZulu-Natal Education formalises strategic partnership with Beier Group

Source: Government of South Africa

KwaZulu-Natal Education formalises strategic partnership with Beier Group

The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has formalised a strategic partnership with the Beier Group aimed at advancing academic excellence and strengthening skills development across the province.

In a statement on Monday, the department said it convened a strategic engagement with the Beier Group on 23 January 2026 in Pinetown, led by the Head of Department, Nkosinathi Ngcobo. The engagement culminated in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking a significant milestone in public–private collaboration.

In terms of the agreement, the Beier Group will sponsor an all-expenses-paid engineering bursary for one of the department’s top achievers. The initiative reinforces a shared commitment to nurturing scarce skills and building a future-ready workforce in KwaZulu-Natal.

The department welcomed the partnership, noting that it underscores the critical role of collaboration between government and industry in expanding access to higher education opportunities and empowering high-performing learners from the province.

Speaking during the engagement, Ngcobo emphasised the importance of leveraging private sector partnerships to unlock opportunities for deserving learners, particularly in priority fields such as engineering, which are central to economic growth and development.

“The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education remains committed to strengthening strategic partnerships that support learner success, promote excellence, and contribute meaningfully to human capital development in the province,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM

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South Africa must build on economic recovery momentum – President

Source: Government of South Africa

South Africa must build on economic recovery momentum – President

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for renewed focus on investment and infrastructure development to ensure that South Africa’s recent economic gains translate into sustained and inclusive growth. 

In his weekly newsletter to the nation, the President said the country entered the new year with growing momentum in its economic recovery, supported by several positive indicators recorded toward the end of 2025.

The economy has recorded four consecutive quarters of growth, while unemployment levels have continued to decline. Recent data released by Statistics South Africa also show a notable reduction in poverty and inequality.

“Confidence in our economy is rising. The stock exchange has been performing well and the average inflation rate is the lowest in two decades,” he said. 

According to the President, South Africa’s exit from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list late last year marked a significant improvement in institutional credibility and sent a positive signal to investors. This progress was further reinforced by a recent sovereign credit ratings upgrade, reflecting strengthened fiscal credibility.

While welcoming these developments, President Ramaphosa cautioned against complacency, stressing that sustained economic growth depends on expanding investment.

“While these signs of progress are encouraging, there is no time to rest. The difference between a temporary lift in growth and sustained shift in our economic trajectory lies in expanding investment. 

“With a strengthening currency and rising commodity prices, we have wind in our sails. Now we must steer our ship towards greater prosperity for all South Africans,” he said.

The President said the Presidential Economic Advisory Council (PEAC), at its first meeting of the year, had outlined key proposals to convert recent gains into long-term growth. The council recommended a simultaneous increase in public infrastructure investment and a reduction in the cost of doing business.

He emphasised that infrastructure investment must focus on well-executed projects that unlock growth, lower business costs and create jobs, rather than increased spending alone.

Strong support was also expressed for ongoing structural reforms in critical sectors such as electricity, logistics and water. These reforms have contributed to the end of load shedding and improvements in rail and port performance, while promoting competition, efficiency and lower costs across the economy.

The President highlighted electricity reforms as central to inclusive growth, noting that a competitive electricity market is essential to lowering energy costs. Improvements in rail, ports and freight corridors were also identified as vital to boosting exports, industrialisation and job creation.

He said government has already laid a strong foundation for increased infrastructure investment by streamlining regulations, facilitating public-private partnerships and strengthening institutions such as Infrastructure South Africa and the Infrastructure Fund. More than R1 trillion has been committed to public infrastructure projects over the next three years.

“We need to build on this foundation by strengthening our State-owned enterprises and enabling them to invest at much higher levels. 

“We must do all of this at a time when the international environment is increasingly volatile and uncertain. Global growth is expected to remain subdued over the medium term and many countries are facing heightened trade and geopolitical tensions,” the President said. 

He underscored the need for South Africa to improve competitiveness and expand markets, particularly within the African continent. 

“We must capitalise on the positive momentum of recent months by building strong partnerships, strengthening delivery, and closing the gap between policy intent and implementation. Only if our own institutions are strong can we compete and remain responsive in a rapidly changing world,” he said.

Looking ahead, President Ramaphosa said government would intensify efforts to grow investment and create jobs, building on the gains achieved so far.

He said Cabinet’s upcoming annual Lekgotla would outline coordinated actions across government and with social partners to ensure that economic progress delivers tangible improvements in the lives of South Africans.

“Through these actions, by working together, we will ensure that the progress we’ve seen in the last year will have an impact on the lives of South Africans this year,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za

DikelediM

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Dube-Ncube welcomes 36 graduates as SA–China education ties deepen

Source: Government of South Africa

Dube-Ncube welcomes 36 graduates as SA–China education ties deepen

Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister, Dr Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has led a welcoming ceremony for 36 South African graduates at the Chinese Embassy in Pretoria following their successful completion of a specialised training programme at Beijing Polytechnic College in China.

The graduates form part of the first cohort to benefit from a collaboration between Beijing Polytechnic College and nine South African Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, under the Joint Declaration of Cooperation (JDC) signed in 2024.

The initiative enabled the students to participate in an intensive 18-week programme at the School of Mechanical Engineering in Beijing.

The programme is embedded within the longstanding and growing cooperation between the Republic of South Africa and the People’s Republic of China in the fields of higher education and skills development.

“This partnership continues to play a significant role in strengthening South Africa’s technical capacity and advancing the country’s knowledge economy,” Dube-Ncube said during the ceremony on Friday.

As the coordinator of the People-to-People Exchange Mechanism (PPEM), the Deputy Minister highlighted the mutually beneficial nature of the cooperation between the two countries, noting with enthusiasm the expanding scope for future opportunities in education, training and industrial skills development.

Addressing the graduates and stakeholders, the Deputy Minister encouraged South African youth to adopt a broader and more strategic outlook when considering study opportunities in China.

She emphasised the importance of aligning international learning experiences with long-term national priorities, particularly those outlined in South Africa’s National Development Plan.

Dube-Ncube also expressed sincere appreciation to the Government of the People’s Republic of China, Ambassador Wu Peng, and the diplomatic staff at the Chinese Embassy for their continued support in ensuring the smooth implementation of exchange programmes.

She also acknowledged the presence of Chinese businesses operating in South Africa, thanking them for their contributions and encouraging continued support for South African students in acquiring critical technical and vocational skills.

“The ceremony reaffirms the commitment of both countries to deepening educational cooperation and empowering young people with skills that support sustainable development and economic growth,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK

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DWS moves swiftly to mitigate risk at Senteeko Dam

Source: Government of South Africa

DWS moves swiftly to mitigate risk at Senteeko Dam

The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) Head of the Specialist Unit: Dam Safety, Wally Ramokopa, will today join a team of engineers and the Appointed Professional Person (APP) to continue the ongoing assessment and monitoring of Senteeko Dam.

Senteeko Dam, officially registered as My Own Dam and commonly known as Senteeko Dam, is classified by the department’s Dam Safety Office as a medium-sized dam. It is 26 metres high, with a storage capacity of 1.8 million cubic metres.

The dam is owned by the Shamile Communal Property Association (CPA) and is primarily used for irrigation purposes.

The department has warned that the dam, located near Barberton in Mpumalanga is at high risk of failure following recent heavy rainfall in the region.

Department spokesperson Wisane Mavasa confirmed that an emergency safety assessment conducted by the Dam Safety Office found that the dam’s spillway structure has sustained severe and irreversible damage. This includes advanced erosion and undercutting, which have resulted in significant structural instability.

Mavasa warned that failure of the dam is imminent and could occur without further warning.

To mitigate the risk, an excavator was mobilised on Saturday morning to widen the emergency side-channel spillway in order to further lower the water level in the dam.

“Excavations have been done and a side channel spillway has been created to release the water and reduce the pressure on the dam wall. Overnight, the water level had dropped by 25mm,” Mavasa said in a statement on Sunday.

The department has further reassured the public that in the event of dam failure, neither the Republic of Mozambique nor the Kingdom of Eswatini would be affected, as the distance from the dam’s spillway to the nearest international border along the flood path exceeds 160 kilometres.

Dam safety and the protection of life remain the Department of Water and Sanitation’s highest priority. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK

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From Re-Entry to Expansion: Libya Sets Growth Agenda at Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026

Source: APO – Report:

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The Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026 opened in Tripoli on Saturday with a series of strategic announcements underlining its renewed upstream momentum and investment appeal. Prime Minister Abdulhamid Al-Dbeibeh confirmed that the country’s first major oil and gas licensing round in more than 17 years – launched in March 2025 – will have its results announced in February 2026. The round, covering 22 onshore and offshore blocks under revised fiscal and profit-sharing terms, is designed to improve competitiveness and support Libya’s push toward higher production and diversified investment.

Prime Minister Al-Dbeibeh framed the summit as a turning point for Libya’s energy sector, highlighting rising output, stronger partnerships and structural reforms. He cited crude oil production exceeding 1.4 million barrels per day (bpd) and total oil equivalent production of more than 1.52 million bpd in early 2026 as evidence of progress following years of disruption.

Waha Re-Entry Agreement: $20B Investment to Boost Output

In one of the summit’s biggest deals, Libya signed a 25-year oil development agreement with France’s TotalEnergies and the U.S.’s ConocoPhillips via Waha Oil Company, backed by more than $20 billion in foreign-financed investment. The deal aims to modernize upstream operations and boost production capacity by up to around 850,000 bpd over the medium term – a major vote of confidence in Libya’s hydrocarbons sector.

The amendment to the Waha re-entry agreement, signed at LEES by TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanné and ConocoPhillips CEO Ryan M. Lance, reinforces long-term IOC commitment to one of Libya’s most strategic producing assets and is widely viewed as a benchmark for future upstream investment structures.

Libya and Egypt Deepen Petroleum Cooperation

Libya and Egypt formally signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to expand technical cooperation, capacity building and institutional coordination in the oil and gas sector. The agreement reflects a shared regional approach to energy security and infrastructure development, reinforcing ties between two of North Africa’s largest hydrocarbon producers.

Chevron Signs MoU on New Exploration Opportunities

In another key development, U.S. oil major Chevron signed an MoU with Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) to study potential new exploration and development opportunities. This marks Chevron’s re-engagement in Libya after more than a decade since its previous exit, and signals growing interest from major international players in the country’s upstream potential.

Ministerial Panel: Production Targets and Strategic Focus

During a high-profile ministerial panel, Libya’s Oil & Gas Minister Dr. Khalifa Abdulsadek said the nation is targeting an increase in crude oil output from roughly 1.375 million bpd to 1.6 million bpd by the end of 2026, reflecting the progress the country has made in stabilizing production and attracting investment. Minister Abdulsadek also highlighted the importance of agreements like the Waha re-entry amendment as central to the country’s strategy for scaling production.

IOC Panel: Gas Expansion, Infrastructure and Drilling Capacity

Italian major Eni confirmed plans to bring its Bahr Essalam gas compression project online by the end of Q1 2026, adding around 100 million standard cubic feet per day (mmscfd) to Libya’s gas output. A second gas utilization project is expected by Q3 2026, potentially delivering an additional 100–120 mmscfd and reinforcing gas as a core pillar of Libya’s energy strategy.

OMV highlighted Libya’s significant stranded gas potential, estimating associated gas volumes of between 7 and 9 billion cubic meters, while stressing that infrastructure constraints – particularly evacuation and processing capacity – remain a key barrier to development. During the same panel, Libya’s NOC outlined plans to invest $2 billion to modernize gas infrastructure, including pipelines and processing systems, addressing bottlenecks that have constrained evacuation and processing capacity.

Operational readiness and drilling capacity also featured prominently. Assail Drilling Company (ADC) hosted a technical workshop focused on rig technology upgrades, outlining how modernized rigs and enhanced drilling efficiency could support Libya’s near-term production targets and reduce downtime across mature fields.

Repsol executives echoed the need for long-term visibility and stable frameworks, noting that predictable contracts and infrastructure readiness are essential for mobilizing rigs, capital and skilled personnel at scale.

Bottom Line: A Turning Point for Libya’s Energy Sector

Announcements from day one of LEES 2026 indicate that Libya’s oil and gas sector is moving decisively from recovery into an expansion phase. With long-term IOC re-entry agreements, advancing gas projects, renewed exploration interest and a focus on infrastructure and drilling efficiency, Libya is positioning itself for higher production, deeper regional integration and renewed relevance in global energy markets.

– on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

Libya’s Energy Comeback Signals New Era for African Energy Development

Source: APO – Report:

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The African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org) welcomes Libya’s accelerating recovery in the energy sector, as rising production, renewed investment and policy clarity signal the country’s re-emergence as a key African and Mediterranean energy producer.

At the Libya Energy & Economic Summit (LEES) 2026 in Tripoli, Libya’s leadership outlined a clear commitment to restoring output, monetizing gas resources and creating an investment environment capable of supporting long-term energy development. The AEC views these priorities as essential to translating Libya’s resource wealth into reliable power supply, economic growth and improved living standards.

Libya’s oil sector has recorded its strongest performance in years, with production averaging approximately 1.375 million barrels per day. Plans to further increase output through a $20 billion investment program reflect a renewed focus on operational stability, international partnerships and performance-driven growth. For the AEC, sustained oil production remains critical to generating revenues needed to fund infrastructure, public services and broader development objectives.

Gas monetization is emerging as a central pillar of Libya’s energy strategy. With gas production expected to reach 700–750 million standard cubic feet per day, Libya is well positioned to expand domestic power generation, reduce energy shortages and support industrial activity. Increased gas utilization also offers a practical pathway to lowering emissions by replacing higher-carbon fuels, while improving affordability and reliability for households and businesses.

Libya’s energy resurgence also carries a strong regional and pan-African dimension. LEES 2026 highlighted the importance of cross-border cooperation, knowledge exchange and investment integration across North Africa and the continent at large. The Chamber sees Libya’s recovery as an opportunity to demonstrate how African countries can work together to strengthen energy security and create regional value chains that support industrial growth, workforce development and energy access.

“Libya is showing that African nations can deliver energy projects at scale when stability, political will and investor-friendly frameworks come together,” said NJ Ayuk, AEC Executive Chairman, speaking at LEES 2026. “By prioritizing energy access, domestic power generation and long-term investment, Libya is laying the foundation for inclusive growth and sustainable development.”

The AEC also welcomes Libya’s focus on operational efficiency, zero-flaring initiatives and workforce development, recognizing these efforts as essential to sustaining production gains while maximizing local value creation. Investments in skills training and technology will be vital to ensuring that energy development translates into jobs, knowledge transfer and long-term economic benefits.

As Libya advances its energy reform agenda, the AEC reiterates its commitment to supporting policies that promote investment, energy access and African-led development. “Libya’s resurgence reinforces a simple truth,” Ayuk added. “Africa’s energy future will be built through pragmatism, partnerships and delivery – not delay.”

– on behalf of African Energy Chamber.