Two of the continent’s most influential energy leaders were celebrated at MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 for their outstanding roles in shaping energy policy africa and strengthening regional cooperation. Eng. Mohamed Hamel, Secretary General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), and Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, Secretary General of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization (APPO), received top industry awards during the opening ceremony on December 9.
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Honoring Leadership in Global and Regional Energy Cooperation
Organizers awarded Eng. Hamel the Gas Market Development & Innovation Award in recognition of his work advancing data-driven insights and cooperation among global gas producers. His leadership has been particularly crucial as Senegal and Mauritania emerge as new LNG producers in the MSGBC basin, benefiting from stronger policy alignment and market transparency promoted by the GECF.
“As global energy systems evolve, natural gas will remain essential for industrialization, economic growth and stability. The GECF is committed to supporting emerging producers with data-driven insights, dialogue and collaboration,” said Eng. Hamel. He emphasized that collaboration will ensure gas becomes a catalyst for long-term prosperity across the region.
APPO’s Efforts to Strengthen African Capacity
Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim received the Regional Energy Collaborator Award for his work advancing African-led development and reinforcing energy partnerships africa. Under his leadership, APPO has prioritized harmonizing policies among member states, championing regional cooperation and fostering African capacity building.
“For too long, our industry has relied heavily on external financing, technology and markets,” said Dr. Ibrahim. “That model is no longer sustainable. We are working to build African capacity, strengthen regional centers of excellence and ensure our resources drive development at home.”
A major part of this effort includes APPO’s support for the African Energy Bank — a transformative financial institution expected to unlock essential capital for oil, gas and infrastructure projects across the continent.
Strengthening Africa’s Role in the Global Energy Landscape
These recognitions underscore the rising importance of African institutions in shaping energy policy africa and building frameworks that encourage unity, self-reliance and sustainable development. As West Africa’s energy landscape expands, both GECF and APPO continue to drive collaborative strategies that advance regional growth and support long-term economic stability.
Their contributions highlight a future where African-led governance, regional cooperation and strong partnerships form the backbone of the continent’s evolving energy architecture.
This story was first reported by Energy Capital & Power. Read the full article here.
