French energy giant TotalEnergies has signed a $10 million agreement with a Mozambican development agency to launch socio-economic projects in Cabo Delgado, signalling renewed commitment to the region as it prepares to restart its suspended gas project.
Signed by TotalEnergies Mozambique chief executive Maxime Rabilloud and Northern Integrated Development Agency (ADIN) chairperson Jacinto Loureiro, the agreement targets job creation and income generation in agriculture, fishing, education, health, biodiversity and local commerce – particularly in the districts of Palma and Mocímboa da Praia.
“This new agreement represents joint work with the government, aligned with its public policies,” Rabilloud said at the signing ceremony.
“The local communities should benefit from the opportunities created even before exploration begins.”
He noted that TotalEnergies’ Mozambique liquefied natural gas (LNG) project has already created over 8,000 jobs in the region despite commercial operations not yet commencing.
The Mozambique LNG project, located on the Afungi peninsula in Palma district, was halted in April 2021 after a deadly insurgent attack on Palma town.
The violence forced TotalEnergies to declare force majeure and evacuate personnel.
With security conditions now stabilising, the company plans to resume operations.
Loureiro welcomed the agreement as a critical step toward rebuilding communities affected by conflict.
He said ADIN would soon visit the targeted districts to begin implementation.
The LNG project, one of Africa’s largest energy investments, is expected to significantly boost Mozambique’s gross domestic product, attract foreign investment and strengthen industrial infrastructure.
Source: APA News
