TotalEnergies and its consortium partners have officially lifted the force majeure on the $20 billion Mozambique Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) project, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s energy development. The project, located in the Cabo Delgado province, was suspended in 2021 following a deadly insurgent attack that raised serious security concerns. After four years of halted operations, the consortium has formally notified the Mozambican government of its intent to resume activities, pending approval of an updated development plan and budget. This move signals renewed confidence in the region’s stability and the strategic importance of the LNG venture.
The Mozambique LNG project is one of Africa’s largest private investments, with plans to produce 13 million metric tons of liquefied natural gas annually. Led by TotalEnergies and supported by partners such as Bharat Petroleum, the project is expected to play a transformative role in Mozambique’s economy. However, the prolonged suspension has led to significant delays and cost escalations. Bharat Petroleum has indicated that the total investment could rise by at least $4 billion, reflecting the need for enhanced security measures and adjustments to infrastructure and logistics.
Restarting the project hinges on the Mozambican government’s approval of an addendum to the original development plan. This step is crucial for reactivating construction and mobilizing resources to resume full-scale operations. The government’s decision will not only determine the timeline for the project’s relaunch but also influence investor sentiment and regional economic prospects. If approved, the project could begin operations by 2029, five years later than initially planned—bringing substantial benefits in terms of job creation, energy exports, and foreign investment.
The lifting of force majeure represents a turning point for Mozambique’s energy ambitions. It reflects the resilience of the consortium and the country’s commitment to leveraging its natural resources for long-term growth. As stakeholders await the government’s final decision, the project stands as a symbol of recovery, opportunity, and the potential for Mozambique to emerge as a key player in the global LNG market.