Multinational ExxonMobil is currently assessing the possibility of lifting the “force majeure” clause that has kept the Rovuma LNG megaproject suspended in Area 4 of the Rovuma Basin, northern Mozambique, following signs of improved security conditions. The information was disclosed by the company’s CEO, Darren Woods, during an investor conference in Houston, USA, according to Reuters.
“Total [TotalEnergies] has just lifted its ‘force majeure,’ and we are evaluating and in the process of doing the same,” Woods said, referring to the Mozambique LNG project in Area 1, which shares infrastructure with Rovuma LNG.
Despite recent progress, ExxonMobil decided at the last minute to cancel an official ceremony in Spring, Texas, where it was expected to publicly reaffirm its commitment to Mozambique, at an event that would have included the presence of President Daniel Chapo.
The decision came amid recent reports of armed attacks near the project site in Cabo Delgado province. According to the Financial Times, the deteriorating security situation was a key factor in the cancellation. “The security situation has worsened significantly,” commented Andrew Bogrand, senior adviser at Oxfam, noting incidents along access routes to the project area.
Data from ACLED indicates that at least 22 people were killed in violent incidents during the week ending October 26, while UNHCR estimates around 100,000 people have been displaced due to armed group activity. The withdrawal of SADC and Rwandan military forces, prompted by financial constraints, has weakened the active security presence on the ground.
The Rovuma LNG project, valued at USD 30 billion (1.91 trillion meticais), is led by ExxonMobil, with Italian company Eni overseeing the floating LNG operations (Coral Norte and Coral Sul). The final investment decision (FID) is expected in early 2026, with the first gas export projected for 2030.
Meanwhile, ExxonMobil has strengthened its presence in Mozambique through a USD 40 million (2.5 billion meticais) investment to build a technology center in Zimpeto, Maputo, aimed at training young Mozambican engineers in the oil and gas sector. The initiative is part of the company’s local content commitments and anticipates the future operational start of Rovuma LNG.
Despite the temporary suspension, the Mozambican government continues to reaffirm the project’s strategic importance to its energy and economic agenda, remaining committed to creating conditions for the full resumption of activities.
Source: Diário Económico
