The Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) warmly congratulated Mauritania and Senegal on the successful launch of the first shipments of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the joint Grand Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project. This recognition was expressed at the 51st meeting of the GECF Executive Council, held on 2 and 3 July 2025 in Doha, Qatar, marking a historic milestone for West Africa on the global energy stage.
In his opening speech, GECF Secretary General Mohamed Hamel described the launch of the GTA project as a "major transformation" for the region. Located on the maritime border between Mauritania and Senegal, the project has enabled both nations to join the exclusive circle of global LNG exporters. "This achievement strengthens Mauritania and Senegal's position as key players in the international energy sector," said Mr Hamel, highlighting the importance of this milestone for West Africa's economic diversification and energy security.
The GTA project, operated by BP in partnership with Kosmos Energy, the Mauritanian Hydrocarbons Company (SMH) and the Senegalese National Petroleum Company (Petrosen), is exploiting an offshore field estimated to contain 15 trillion cubic feet of gas. The first LNG exports, set to begin in 2025, position the project as an engine of economic growth for both countries, with revenues expected to reach several billion dollars over the coming decades.
The 51st meeting of the GECF Executive Council brought together representatives from the 12 permanent member countries (including Algeria, Qatar, and Russia) and the five observer countries, including Mauritania and Senegal. Discussions focused on prospects for cooperation, upcoming energy projects, and the development of the strategic programme for 2026. The GECF, which represents more than 70% of the world's proven natural gas reserves, reaffirmed its role as a key platform for coordination and dialogue in support of sustainable development and global energy security.
A key focus of the meeting was the need to increase investment in gas infrastructure. With global demand for natural gas expected to grow by 36% by 2050, according to projections by the International Energy Agency (IEA), the GECF emphasised the central role of gas in the energy transition. "Natural gas is a reliable and flexible solution for meeting energy needs while reducing carbon emissions," said Mohamed Hamel, advocating for a balanced approach between economic development and environmental responsibility.
The Grand Tortue Ahmeyim project is a great example of how Mauritania and Senegal are working together to use their resources in a responsible way. This project, one of the most ambitious in West Africa, includes a floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) unit and an offshore liquefaction facility, with an initial capacity of 2.5 million tonnes of LNG per year. Ultimately, phase 2 could double this capacity, strengthening the integration of both countries into global LNG markets.
Despite this success, challenges remain. Fluctuations in LNG prices on international markets, combined with pressures for rapid energy transition, require careful management of revenues and investments. Furthermore, Mauritania and Senegal must continue to strengthen their institutional capacities to maximise the benefits of the project while minimising environmental impacts, particularly on the region's sensitive marine ecosystems.
The GECF reiterated its commitment to supporting its members and observers in developing their gas projects. The Doha meeting concluded with a collective statement in favour of the responsible and sustainable use of gas resources, with an emphasis on technological innovation and international cooperation. Discussions also addressed the need to strengthen resilience in the face of geopolitical and climate uncertainties in order to ensure global energy security.
The success of the GTA project marks a new era for Mauritania and Senegal, which are establishing themselves as emerging players in the LNG sector. This breakthrough, welcomed by the GECF, illustrates the potential of natural gas as a pillar of energy transition and socio-economic development in West Africa. As the world seeks to balance economic growth and sustainability, the cooperation model embodied by GTA could inspire other nations rich in gas resources.