A series of memoranda of understanding signed over the past year could shape Africa’s energy landscape in 2026 and beyond. Though preliminary, these agreements point to rising investor confidence, stronger cross-border cooperation, and renewed momentum in both hydrocarbons and renewables. Some may evolve into commercial contracts or financing commitments by the time of the Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum in Paris next April – a key gathering point for the continent’s energy investors – while others remain largely political in nature and will require sustained follow-through to gain traction. Below are seven MOUs from 2025 worth tracking, where they were signed, what they cover, and their realistic prospects for translating into tangible deals in the year ahead.
Libya’s NOC and ExxonMobil
In August 2025, Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) signed a pivotal agreement with ExxonMobil to conduct geological and geophysical studies across four offshore blocks. This move marks the company’s most significant re-entry into Libya’s upstream sector in more than a decade. The pact is poised to lead to seismic campaigns and technical evaluations. If the results are promising, discussions around licensing or farm-in agreements will likely follow. The strategic importance of this deal cannot be overstated; it signifies Libya’s gradual reopening to major Western oil firms, potentially revitalizing its oil sector.
Nigeria’s REA and WeLight
In March 2025, Nigeria’s Rural Electrification Agency (REA) partnered with WeLight in an MOU aimed at enhancing renewable mini-grid and metrogrid development. The initiative targets the deployment of 400 mini-grids and 50 metrogrids by 2030, striving to improve energy access in rural and peri-urban communities. Such decentralized energy solutions reflect a growing trend in Nigeria, aiming to expand electricity access to approximately two million people, thereby strengthening public-private cooperation in the clean energy sector.
Etu Energias and Block 17/06
At the African Energy Week 2025 in Cape Town, Angola’s Etu Energias secured structured financing to support its 7.5% stake in Block 17/06, which is home to the Begonia project. This project commenced production earlier this year and is expected to yield 30,000 barrels per day. Partners in this venture include Sonangol E&P, SSI, Etu Energies, and Falcon Oil, with TotalEnergies acting as the operator. The substantial financing will fund ongoing development activities, including infrastructure expansion and production optimization, potentially increasing output and operational efficiency in 2026. This collaboration highlights the growing investor confidence in Angola’s upstream sector and underscores the vital role that African independent energy companies play in driving production, local participation, and value creation.
Sonatrach and Occidental Petroleum
In April 2025, Algeria’s state-owned company Sonatrach and U.S.-based Occidental Petroleum entered into two strategic MOUs for hydrocarbon exploration and production collaboration. These agreements signal renewed engagement between Algeria and international operators, as the country seeks to bolster its output and expand its export capabilities. By leveraging Occidental’s technical expertise alongside Sonatrach’s established infrastructure, this partnership could unlock new upstream opportunities in North Africa. Historically, such MOUs often lead to more formal commercial agreements, contingent on government support and favorable exploration conditions.
Central African Pipeline System
In July 2025, the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization, along with several Central African governments, signed a regional memorandum to initiate a feasibility study for the Central African Pipeline System (CAPS). This ambitious project envisions a multi-country oil and gas pipeline network aimed at enhancing regional energy security and market integration. Although still in its nascent stages, the MOU reflects a collective endeavor to advance long-term infrastructure development. A detailed feasibility study will be crucial before moving to procurement or financing phases.
Mitrelli Group and HYDRO-LINK
In 2025, private-sector entities Mitrelli Group and HYDRO-LINK signed an MOU to collaborate on a proposed 1,150-km transmission line linking Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This interconnection aims to enhance power trade and grid stability between the two nations, supporting broader regional electrification goals. If advanced, the project could attract development finance institutions and export credit support due to its potential for cross-border and renewable energy integration.
Petromoc and Aiteo
In May 2025, Mozambique’s state oil company Petromoc formed a partnership with Nigeria’s Aiteo Eastern E&P to establish a modular oil refinery in Mozambique. This ambitious project aims to construct a facility capable of processing up to 200,000 barrels per day, producing essential products such as gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and naphtha. This initiative aligns with Mozambique’s strategy to bolster domestic refining capacity and reduce reliance on imports, effectively positioning it as a regional energy hub in Southern Africa.