The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is preparing to showcase Africa’s vast oil reserves to global investors during African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa.
OPEC Secretary General Haitham Al Ghais will headline discussions on Africa’s energy future at the event, underlining the continent’s growing importance in global oil and gas markets. Since taking office in 2022, Al Ghais has consistently championed Africa’s role in ensuring energy security, stressing that unlocking the continent’s resources remains one of OPEC’s top priorities.
Industry data suggests Africa holds more than 120 billion barrels of proven oil reserves, much of which is still untapped. OPEC sees this potential as critical not only for meeting present energy demands but also for ensuring long-term stability in global supply.
A recent focus has been Namibia, where major offshore discoveries are set to make the country a rising player in the oil industry by the next decade. Al Ghais has pledged OPEC’s support for Namibia’s exploration and production plans, framing it as part of the organization’s broader push to drive investment into Africa.
“Africa’s energy resources are central to the future of global oil markets, and our participation in AEW reflects OPEC’s commitment to building partnerships that advance sustainable growth,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber.
As an official partner of AEW 2025, OPEC will lead several sessions, including the World Oil Outlook and the OPEC-Africa Roundtable. These platforms will explore market dynamics, highlight investment opportunities, and provide strategies for scaling up Africa’s oil and gas development.
Now in its fifth year, AEW has become the continent’s premier dealmaking venue, attracting project operators, financiers, governments, and technology providers. With OPEC’s backing, the 2025 edition is expected to place Africa firmly on the global energy map, spotlighting opportunities that could transform both regional economies and the worldwide oil industry.
