ALGIERS, April 3, 2025 – The Algerian Minister of State, Minister of Energy, Mines, and Renewable Energy, Mohamed Arkab, called on Thursday for strengthened cooperation among African oil-producing countries to optimize the utilization of energy resources, as stated by the ministry.
Participating via videoconference in the 47th extraordinary session of the Council of Ministers of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization (APPO), alongside ministry officials, Arkab emphasized “the necessity of diversifying funding sources for energy projects, given the current challenges related to the energy transition and the lack of investments in the oil and gas sector,” the statement clarified.
“The African continent possesses significant potential in terms of natural resources and human capital, providing a solid foundation for promoting industrial and energy development and achieving energy self-sufficiency,” Arkab noted.
Among the key topics discussed during this session was the appointment of a new Secretary General for the APPO.
It was agreed that candidacies would be submitted immediately following the session, with interview and evaluation procedures scheduled for the coming months, in accordance with established criteria.
Additionally, discussions centered on the latest developments regarding the establishment of the African Energy Bank (BAE), initiated by the APPO to enhance investment in the energy and hydrocarbons sector across the continent, aimed at supporting energy infrastructure projects and fostering economic growth in member states.
The APPO Council of Ministers reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening energy security in Africa by promoting regional cooperation, diversifying funding sources, and optimizing the utilization of energy resources, thereby serving the interests of member states and contributing to the sustainable development of the continent’s populations.
Founded in 1987, the APPO comprises 15 member states: Algeria, Angola, Benin, Cameroon, Congo, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Niger, Nigeria, Chad, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Libya, and South Africa, along with two observer countries, Senegal and Ghana.
This organization serves as a mechanism for collaboration, coordination of efforts, and the exchange of knowledge and expertise among African oil-producing nations.
The APPO aims to promote joint initiatives across all areas of the oil industry, both upstream and downstream, enabling member states to benefit from oil exploitation.
It also seeks to coordinate the commercial policies and strategies of member states through information sharing, aiming to improve the management of non-renewable resources and ensure equitable revenues from oil exports, while exploring mechanisms to assist oil-importing African countries in addressing their energy needs, the statement concluded.
