U.S. policy shifts and African regulatory reforms are converging to create new momentum for upstream oil and gas investment, speakers said during African Energy Week 2025. The alignment of U.S. export financing and pro-investment frameworks across African nations is being described as a pivotal opportunity to strengthen bilateral energy ties.
Mark Menezes, President and CEO of the U.S. Energy Association, said the current administration’s removal of restrictions on the Export-Import Bank and other financing agencies has “unleashed opportunities” for U.S. companies to invest across the African energy landscape. “Africa is resource-rich, and we see long-term partnerships not just for oil and gas but also for critical minerals,” he said.
In Nigeria, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) Ekperikpe Ekpo highlighted the Petroleum Industry Act and new executive orders aimed at streamlining regulation and improving fiscal terms. The government has also established a Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund to attract private capital and de-risk new gas infrastructure projects.
Industry executives noted that while Africa’s regulatory and financing environment has improved, execution remains a challenge. Kosmos Energy CEO Andrew Inglis cited Ghana’s Jubilee field, which advanced from license to first production in six years, as an example of what can be achieved with decisive leadership.
Panelists also pointed to growing U.S. government engagement. Andrew Rapp, Senior Adviser at the U.S. Department of Energy, said the administration views African energy expansion as essential to global prosperity. “Energy addition is a priority for the DOE, and nowhere can it be more impactful than here in Africa,” he said.
According to NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, the next phase of growth depends on sustained U.S. financing and continued reforms from African governments. “We’re seeing a new era not only of energy opportunity, but of U.S.–Africa partnership,” he said.
Image courtesy of African Energy Chamber
