Morocco strengthens ties with US investors to advance $25 billion gas pipeline project
Morocco has stepped onto the global energy stage, presenting its ambitious $25 billion Gazoduc Pipeline project to American investors at the US-Africa Energy Forum in Houston, Texas. The forum, held on August 6–7 in the “Energy Capital of the World,” provided a pivotal platform for Morocco to secure international support for the transformative project, which aims to connect Nigeria’s gas supply to Moroccan and European markets.
A strategic pitch for African energy
The forum comes at a time when US investors are increasingly interested in supporting energy projects across Africa. Nawfal Drari, Director of Project Finance at Morocco’s National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM), highlighted the pipeline’s significance and investment potential. According to Drari, the project has reached an advanced stage, with Morocco seeking partnerships to push it toward the Final Investment Decision.
Launched in 2017 under the leadership of Morocco’s King Mohammed VI and Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, the pipeline is designed to serve as a key energy artery, spanning over 6,000 kilometers across 13 African countries. Engineers estimate it will transport between 15 and 30 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually, providing reliable energy access to approximately 400 million people.
Houston: The ideal venue for energy collaboration
Houston’s reputation as a global energy hub made it a fitting location for the forum. Home to over 4,600 energy-related companies, the city is a magnet for investors in oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors.
One prominent attendee, the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), emphasized its interest in African energy infrastructure. DFC Director Selam Demissie stated that the agency is actively evaluating oil and gas investment opportunities, marking a notable shift toward supporting traditional energy projects in addition to renewables.
Against this backdrop, Morocco’s pitch positioned the Gazoduc Pipeline as a cornerstone of Africa’s energy future. ONHYM representatives underscored the project’s potential to foster economic and social integration while ensuring affordable energy access across the region.
Morocco’s vision: A continental energy gateway
Beyond providing critical energy infrastructure, the pipeline is central to Morocco’s broader aspirations of becoming a leading energy transit hub. By linking African gas reserves to European markets, the project aims to boost industrial growth, generate thousands of jobs, and strengthen economic ties across the continent.
The pipeline has already cleared several hurdles, including detailed design studies and environmental impact assessments. Plans are now underway to execute the project in phases, with financing and construction overseen by a dedicated holding company. In December 2024, the 66th CEDEAO Summit marked a major milestone with the approval of the Intergovernmental Agreement, outlining the responsibilities of participating nations.
Experts describe the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline as a transformative initiative capable of reshaping Africa’s energy landscape. For Morocco, the project represents a strategic opportunity to align with growing US interest in African energy partnerships, solidifying its role as a key player in the global energy sector.
