Promoting sustainable investment in oil & gas

Interest in Africa’s upstream oil and gas sector continues to grow, with the proviso that effective governance, transparent policies and favourable fiscal terms are developed in-country 

To foster a sustainable investment environment, African governments must strike a delicate balance between attracting foreign capital and ensuring that investments serve the broader interests of their populations.

For Africa to realise its vast potential in the oil and gas sector, good governance is essential. Governments must establish transparent policies that instill confidence in investors. A commitment to political stability and robust regulatory frameworks not only attracts foreign direct investment (FDI) but also fosters an environment where businesses can thrive.

Key to this approach is the development of favourable fiscal terms that align with the interests of both the state and investors. By offering competitive tax regimes and incentives, governments can entice investors while ensuring that local communities benefit from the wealth generated by natural resources. This alignment is crucial in the context of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7, which emphasises the need for access to affordable and sustainable energy for all.

A panel discussion I hosted during Africa Energy Week underscored the need for policies that effectively attract sustainable investment. African nations, rich in oil and gas reserves, face the challenge of translating these resources into tangible benefits for their populations. Investments should not only generate financial returns but also contribute to socio-economic development.

To achieve this, countries must develop comprehensive strategies that encourage local refining and the establishment of a robust petrochemicals industry. This minimises the export of crude oil and maximises the value retained within the continent, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. Such a multifaceted approach not only enhances the value extracted from the continent's natural resources but also has far-reaching socio-economic benefits.

For instance, exporting crude oil in its raw form means losing a significant portion of its potential economic value. By investing in local refining capabilities, countries can process crude oil into finished products – such as gasoline, diesel, and various petrochemicals – before they are exported. This transformation allows nations to capture more value from their natural resources and reduce dependency on foreign refined products. 

This is the first of a two-part article written by Taona Kokera, director - head of infrastructure finance advisory at Forvis Mazars in South Africa