Grand Tortue Ahmeyim LNG Project: A Joint Venture Between Mauritania and Senegal

A new energy giant is rising in West Africa. The Grand Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) project, a landmark joint venture between Mauritania and Senegal, is set to transform the region's economic and energy landscape. By tapping into one of Africa’s largest natural gas discoveries, this ambitious project is not just a story about fossil fuels; it’s a powerful example of cross-border cooperation and a sign of the continent’s growing determination to chart its own development path.

Situated in a shared maritime border, the massive "Greater Tortue" gas field holds an estimated 15 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. In partnership with global energy leaders BP and Kosmos Energy, Mauritania and Senegal are poised to become major players on the world's energy stage. But this project also arrives at a critical moment, as Africa navigates the complex pressures of climate change and the global push for a green transition.

Senegal Steps into the Spotlight

The GTA project is part of a broader energy boom for Senegal. After years of exploration, the nation officially joined the ranks of oil-producing countries in June 2024, when the Sangomar oil field, located 100 kilometers offshore, began pumping crude. While its initial output is modest, the project is expected to provide a significant boost to the national economy and signals Senegal's arrival as a serious energy producer.

But it is the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim LNG project that holds the most transformative potential. Discovered in 2015, this shared offshore resource is being developed in a unique partnership:

• A Model of Cooperation: In a region often marked by competition, Mauritania and Senegal signed an agreement in 2018 to share the revenues from the field equally.

• Deepwater Innovation: Located 115 kilometers offshore at a depth of 2,850 meters, the GTA facility is Africa's deepest offshore project, showcasing cutting-edge technology.

• Global Partnerships: The project is a collaboration between BP, Kosmos Energy, and the national energy companies of both Senegal (Petrosen) and Mauritania (SMHPM).

After delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, production from the first well officially commenced on January 1, 2025. Phase One is expected to produce 2.5 million tons of LNG annually, with plans to ramp up to 10 million tons per year by 2030. This milestone not only strengthens the two countries' position in the global energy market but also paves the way for a new era of regional prosperity.

A Region Rich in Resources

The energy wealth of Mauritania and Senegal extends far beyond the GTA project. Mauritania’s Bir Allah field is estimated to hold a staggering 80 trillion cubic feet of gas—more than three times the reserves of the Tortue field. Meanwhile, Senegal’s Yaakar-Teranga basin holds significant reserves that will be prioritized for the domestic market, helping to power the nation’s growing economy.

This abundance of natural resources has prompted Senegal to fundamentally overhaul its legal and regulatory framework to ensure that the newfound wealth benefits its citizens.

Navigating the Politics of Energy

The new Senegalese administration, led by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, has announced its intention to renegotiate oil and gas contracts signed by previous governments. This move, aimed at securing a better deal for the Senegalese people, has created a tense standoff with international investors.

Legal experts warn that while renegotiating future projects is feasible, attempting to alter existing contracts could trigger international arbitration and deter future investment. This highlights the delicate balancing act Senegal must perform: meeting public expectations for a fair share of the profits while maintaining a stable and attractive investment climate.

A Roadmap for a Sustainable Energy Future

As Senegal and Mauritania step onto the global energy stage, they face both immense opportunities and significant challenges. To navigate this new landscape successfully, a strategic and forward-thinking approach is essential.

Key Recommendations for Senegal and the Region:

1. Diversify the Economy: To avoid the "resource curse" and mitigate the risks of volatile fossil fuel prices, revenues must be invested in other promising sectors like agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing.

2. Prioritize Clean Energy: The long-term future is green. Investing in the region's vast solar and wind potential is not only crucial for environmental sustainability but also a smart economic strategy for a low-carbon world.

3. Invest in Strategic Projects: A portion of the energy revenues should be channeled into a sovereign wealth fund to finance strategic projects with long-term benefits for the population, such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

4. Protect People and Planet: Ensure that local communities are meaningful partners in all energy projects. Continuous dialogue, transparent decision-making, and strong environmental protections are non-negotiable.

The Grand Tortue Ahmeyim project is more than just a gas field; it’s a symbol of a new chapter for West Africa. If managed wisely, it can be a powerful engine for development, cooperation, and a more prosperous future for all.

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