Woodside Energy has been honoured with the title of International Champion of Local Potential for its exemplary commitment to developing local capacity and empowering African communities. The award, presented as part of the Invest in African Energy initiative, highlights the company's strategic efforts to integrate local people and businesses at the heart of major energy projects on the continent.
Woodside Energy has particularly distinguished itself through its flagship project, the Sangomar offshore development in Senegal. In partnership with Petrosen, Senegal's state-owned energy company, Woodside has put in place concrete initiatives to integrate local suppliers and build industrial capacity. The subsea installation of the project's Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel was supported from Dakar, while logistics services were provided by local companies, generating significant economic benefits for the surrounding communities.
Beyond project execution, Woodside Energy is committed to long-term programmes to empower communities. Initiatives such as skills-building workshops, mentoring programmes and ongoing support for local businesses have equipped Senegalese professionals with internationally competitive skills. These efforts reflect the company's commitment to sustainable and inclusive growth, rooting sustainable industrial capacity in the regions where it operates.
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, praised Woodside Energy's approach: "Woodside is leading the way in demonstrating how global companies can catalyse sustainable change in Africa. Through the Sangomar project and its extended partnerships, and as the company enters Phase 2, Woodside is proving that investing in local talent, suppliers and industrial capacity is not only ethical, but essential to building a sustainable energy sector across the continent."
As Woodside Energy enters phase 2 of the Sangomar project, the company continues to place local development at the heart of its strategy. By strengthening its partnerships with local stakeholders and continuing its training initiatives, Woodside aims to maximise the economic and social impact of its activities, while consolidating its position as a leader in the African energy sector.
As it prepares to welcome thousands of participants to Cape Town in 2026, African Energy Week 2025 continues to celebrate those like Woodside Energy who are redefining Africa's energy future through responsible and inclusive investment.