At the opening ceremony of African Energy Week 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa, Mike Sangster, Senior Vice President Africa at TotalEnergies, asserted that Africa must have the autonomy to develop its energy resources based on its own priorities. Emphasizing the continent’s potential, he highlighted TotalEnergies’ significant investments across several African nations, including Mozambique, Namibia, Uganda, Tanzania, and South Africa.
In his address, Sangster drew on his extensive experience on the continent, commending Africa’s talent and entrepreneurial spirit. “I have never been more convinced that Africa is rich. And that wealth starts with its people,” he stated, acknowledging the continent’s resourcefulness and ambition to become a key player in the global energy market.
With an estimated 550 million Africans lacking electricity, Sangster pointed out the need for African governments to determine the best ways to utilize their oil, gas, solar, and hydropower resources to address domestic needs and spur economic growth. He stressed, “Every country must be free to shape its energy policy and develop its resources. This is a conviction we share at TotalEnergies.”
Sangster’s message underscored the significance of energy sovereignty and the urgency for investments to catalyze projects that would enhance Africa’s economic landscape. He argued that the energy transition in Africa cannot adhere to a one-size-fits-all strategy due to the continent’s diverse resources and varying development goals.
In terms of ongoing initiatives, he highlighted Mission 300, aimed at providing electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030, noting that over 50 million individuals have gained access since 2024. TotalEnergies plays an active role in this initiative’s Private Sector Council, remaining committed to further advancements.
The executive also warned that achieving these ambitions hinges on stable investments, predictable regulations, and improved access to capital. He remarked that many major energy projects entail long timelines, necessitating consistent government policies to attract long-term investor commitments.
Furthermore, Sangster discussed the evolving global energy landscape, suggesting that recent geopolitical changes underline the need for diversification in energy sources. He proposed that Africa, with its untapped resources, is well-positioned to serve as a reliable energy partner internationally while simultaneously addressing its development challenges.
Highlighting TotalEnergies’ flagship projects, Sangster specifically mentioned the Mozambique LNG project, which is poised to transform the country into a leading liquefied natural gas exporter. He stated it has already trained over 4,000 local workers and is expected to generate around $35 billion in government revenues throughout its lifespan.
In Namibia, he praised new offshore discoveries, including the Venus and Mopane fields, that could establish the nation as a significant energy producer. In East Africa, he referred to the Tilenga and Kingfisher oil projects in Uganda and the East African Crude Oil Pipeline as examples of how energy initiatives can contribute to local economies, generating approximately 90,000 jobs and substantial local spending.
Sangster included South Africa in TotalEnergies’ portfolio by mentioning its involvement in diverse energy sectors, such as renewable energy and battery storage. He noted the Hydra solar project, which is expected to supply electricity for around 200,000 households, showcasing the potential of integrated renewable technologies.
As African Energy Week progresses, Sangster urged leaders, investors, and stakeholders to turn discussions into action, generating real opportunities within the continent. He concluded with a call to harness the building momentum in Africa’s energy sector, reflecting TotalEnergies’ commitment to supporting local communities and enhancing energy access for future generations.
