As Africa emerges as the next frontier of global energy development, Algeria is positioning itself as a central player in this dynamic. Backed by abundant resources, industrial capacity, and a clear geopolitical vision, Algeria is investing in the continent not only as an energy supplier but as a catalyst for sustainable, shared growth.
Africa: A Continent of Energy Promise
With a population expected to surpass 2.5 billion by 2050 and rapidly expanding urban centers, Africa faces a dual challenge: meeting a surging energy demand while building resilient, modern, and green infrastructure.
Despite vast reserves of oil, gas, solar, wind, and hydropower, more than 600 million Africans still lack access to reliable electricity. This structural gap presents a major opportunity for countries like Algeria to act as both partners and drivers of continental development.
Algeria: Poised to Become Africa’s Energy Hub
With the third-largest shale gas reserves in the world, extensive conventional resources, and nearly 50% of its territory yet unexplored, Algeria holds unmatched energy potential. The country is enhancing its attractiveness to foreign investors through new investment and hydrocarbon laws that encourage joint ventures and technology transfer.
« Algeria is not just an energy exporter. We are ready to share our know-how, co-develop infrastructure, and support our African partners in building their energy sovereignty, » said Sofiane Oufaa, Director of International Cooperation at the Ministry of Energy and Mines.
Africa: A Strategic and Solidarity-Based Choice
Through the presence of national energy companies Sonatrach and Sonelgaz in countries such as Libya, Tunisia, and across the Sahel region, Algeria is actively involved in developing local infrastructure and power grids. The recent inauguration of the permanent headquarters of the African Energy Commission (AFREC) in Algiers is a powerful symbol of Algeria’s growing influence and recognition across the continent.
A Pragmatic and Multisectoral Energy Diplomacy
As global energy markets shift toward renewable energy and sustainability, Algeria has launched an ambitious 15,000 MW renewable energy program, with 3,000 MW already underway. This initiative serves as a model for African nations striving to modernize their energy mix and meet climate commitments.
Algeria’s active partnerships with General Electric, and ongoing negotiations with Chevron, ExxonMobil, Chinese and European companies, illustrate its intent to become a technological and industrial springboard for Africa’s energy sector.
Three Pillars for a Continental Vision
Algeria’s African energy strategy is structured around three pillars:
- Market Access – Positioned at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, Algeria can serve as a gateway to regional and global energy markets.
- Shared Infrastructure – Projects like the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and solar energy corridors between North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa aim to enhance continental energy integration.
- Capacity Building – Algeria strongly emphasizes technology transfer and human capital development, with training programs and industrial knowledge sharing embedded into its international energy agreements.
Africa and Algeria, Partners in a Sovereign Energy Future
Faced with global energy transitions and rising regional demand, Algeria is betting on Africa — a young, resource-rich, and strategically vital continent. With its natural wealth, infrastructure, and forward-looking diplomacy, Algeria is well-positioned to be a catalyst for Africa’s energy awakening.
In this shared vision, energy becomes more than a resource — it becomes a tool for integration, development, and African unity.
S.B.
