ExxonMobil has reaffirmed its commitment to integrating Mozambican companies into the business opportunities associated with the Rovuma LNG project, guaranteeing that national suppliers will have an active role as the development moves into the implementation phase.
The assurance was given during a meeting with businesspeople from Cabo Delgado, where the multinational stressed that, after the final investment decision, expected this year, supplier meetings will be organised regularly to identify local capabilities and facilitate the participation of Mozambican companies in the project's supply chain.
According to Lauren Glushik, an ExxonMobil representative, the development of national companies will be a decisive element in the success of Rovuma LNG, reinforcing the commitment to creating a solid base of local suppliers able to meet the demands of one of the world's largest energy investments.
The governor of Cabo Delgado, Valige Tauabo, considered that this strategy represents an opportunity to boost the province's economic development. The official assured his audience that the Provincial Government will continue to work with the various partners to create an environment conducive to private investment, job creation and inclusive economic growth.
“The Provincial Executive Council of Cabo Delgado reaffirms its commitment to continue working with all partners to promote an environment favourable to private sector development, job creation and inclusive economic growth in our province,” said Valige Tauabo.
One of Africa's largest energy projects
Mozambique has three major approved projects for exploiting the vast natural gas reserves of the Rovuma Basin, off the coast of Cabo Delgado.
Currently, only Coral Sul FLNG, led by Eni, is in production, since 2022. The Coral Norte project has been given the green light to proceed with an estimated investment of 7.2 billion dollars, making it possible to double liquefied natural gas production from 2028.
Meanwhile, Mozambique LNG, led by TotalEnergies, has officially resumed its development after a four-year suspension caused by instability in the region. Valued at around 20 billion dollars, it plans to start production in 2029.
The third major development is Rovuma LNG, in Area 4, led by ExxonMobil. Budgeted at approximately 30 billion dollars, the project is expected to produce around 18 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas a year after 2030, and is regarded as one of the largest private investments ever made in Africa.
The President of the Republic, Daniel Chapo, recently expressed confidence in the project's progress, saying that positive negotiations with ExxonMobil are under way.
“We are making good progress with Exxon. We are working so that, if all goes well, by September this year we can sign the final investment decision. We are talking about the largest private investment project on the African continent,” declared the Head of State.
If the final investment decision is confirmed in the coming months, Rovuma LNG will enter a new phase of execution, opening up opportunities for hundreds of national companies and reinforcing the role of natural gas as one of the main drivers of Mozambique's economic growth.
