TotalEnergies is preparing to restart its $20 billion Mozambique LNG project as the government of Mozambique moves to lift force majeure within days, according to well-placed sources. The decision would unlock one of Africa’s largest energy investments, bringing new momentum to the country’s ambitions of becoming a global LNG hub.
The project, located in Cabo Delgado’s Afungi Peninsula, was halted in 2021 following escalating militant attacks in the region. Since then, a combination of government-led security operations and international support has helped stabilise the area, creating conditions for TotalEnergies and its partners to resume work.
Industry watchers have been anticipating this moment for months. In July, TotalEnergies Chief Executive Patrick Pouyanne signalled that force majeure could be lifted before the end of summer. More recently, the company’s Country Manager, Maxime Rabilloud, said, “We are preparing to lift force majeure and we are working hard to restart the project.”
The Mozambique LNG development, designed to produce 13 million tonnes of LNG annually, is a cornerstone of the nation’s economic strategy. With global gas demand expected to remain strong, restarting the project could revitalise investor confidence, generate thousands of jobs and re-establish Mozambique as a competitive force in the LNG market.
Sources suggest Maputo is planning a formal announcement late next week. If confirmed, the restart will not only mark the end of a four year suspension but also signal the revival of one of Africa’s most transformative energy ventures.
