Lagos — A major milestone has been reached in the advancement of the Central African Pipeline System (CAPS) project.
The Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC), the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization (APPO), and the Central Africa Business and Energy Forum (CABEF) have reached a tripartite agreement that will serve as the basis for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
This strategic alliance lays the foundation for a long-term collaborative framework, essential to achieving the transformative ambitions of the CAPS project.
This tripartite agreement is now formally submitted to the current CEMAC Chairman for recognition, marking a new phase of high-level political engagement and regional ownership. This gesture confirms the commitment of all parties to achieving a shared vision for a resilient, integrated, and sustainable energy future in Central Africa.
What this means for Central Africa
This tripartite agreement for the CAPS project is poised to transform the energy landscape and boost sustainable development in Central Africa. Here’s what this important agreement means for the region:
Strengthen regional energy security and access to energy
The CAPS project aims to establish robust, interconnected networks of natural gas pipelines for transmission and white goods infrastructure for electricity generation in CEMAC member states. This initiative will significantly improve fuel supply and availability, addressing chronic energy shortages and expanding access to reliable and affordable energy resources for millions of people.
Promoting regional integration and trade
By physically connecting national energy supply chains and fostering harmonized energy markets, the CAPS project will catalyze trade in natural gas and white goods in Central Africa and beyond. This integration will strengthen economic interdependence and support the development of a stable regional energy market.
Stimulate investment and reduce risks
The unified approach enshrined in this tripartite agreement provides a coherent framework that reassures investors and development partners. It demonstrates strong regional coordination, effective governance, and long-term commitment, reducing perceived risks for investors and opening up financing opportunities for vital energy infrastructure.
Accelerate industrialization and economic diversification
Access to affordable and reliable energy resources is a cornerstone of industrial transformation. The CAPS project will power industrial zones, agro-industrial clusters, mining corridors, and high-value infrastructure, creating jobs and promoting regional economic diversification.
Promote climate action and energy transition
The CAPS project adopts a diversified energy mix, integrating natural gas as a transition fuel and supporting efficient use of energy resources.
This will enable Central African countries to meet their development needs while respecting their climate commitments and global energy transition objectives.
Strengthening regional governance and cooperation
This tripartite agreement demonstrates the region’s growing cohesion and ambition. It paves the way for strengthened governance mechanisms, regulatory convergence, and policy coordination in the energy sector, ensuring the efficient and equitable distribution of energy resources.
A vision guided by partnership
This agreement marks a collective step forward, but it also reflects years of preparation by institutions committed to regional progress. As a multi-stakeholder platform for dialogue and strategic coordination, CABEF played a key facilitating role in aligning political, technical, and financial stakeholders around the CAPS vision.
Through its advocacy, convening power and ongoing commitment, CABEF remains committed to supporting CEMAC and APPO in transforming this shared vision into an iconic regional reality.
