
Mozambique’s newly inaugurated president, Daniel Chapo, has stated that the country does not plan to revise the terms of its planned liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects with major energy companies such as TotalEnergies and ExxonMobil.
The president’s remarks came after months of political unrest following his disputed election. Chapo, of the long-ruling Frelimo party, assumed office on Wednesday amid opposition protests and a volatile political climate. Despite the tensions, the government remains focused on the large-scale LNG projects expected to transform Mozambique’s economy and stabilize its finances.
Referring to TotalEnergies’ $20 billion project in the volatile Cabo Delgado province, Chapo explained that the government is not in a position to adjust contract terms, as the project has not yet commenced production. “The contracts are new and not yet in force. There is no basis for review at this stage,” he emphasized.
Security in Cabo Delgado has been a key concern for the LNG projects, with insurgent violence halting operations since 2021. However, Chapo noted that the security situation has improved in recent months, creating a more favorable environment for the resumption of construction activities.
The president also announced the appointment of Estevao Pale as the new energy and mineral resources minister. Pale, previously chairman of Mozambique’s national oil company ENH, is tasked with overseeing the country’s growing energy sector.
Chapo further reiterated his commitment to addressing insurgent threats, with continued support from neighboring countries and Rwanda’s military forces.
In response to the opposition protests over his election win, Chapo called for dialogue as the only viable solution to the ongoing unrest.