Member Corner
The Secretary General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), H.E. Eng. Mohamed Hamel, took part in the panel session “Russia – Africa: Towards the Practical Implementation of Projects in the Energy Field.” The session brought together senior representatives from Russia and Africa to discuss practical ways to strengthen cooperation and investment in the energy sector.
The discussion was moderated by Mr. Ilya Kopelevich, Editor-in-Chief of Business FM, and included H.E. Roman Marshavin, Deputy Minister of Energy of the Russian Federation; Mr. Daniil Algulyan, Deputy Chairman and Member of the Management Board, VEB.RF; Ms. Tatyana Dovgalenko, Director, Africa Partnership Department, MFA of Russia; Mr. NJ Ayuk, Chairman of the African Energy Chamber; Mr. Andrey Siling, Deputy Director General, Agency for Strategic Initiatives; and Mr. Stephan Solzhenitsyn, Vice Chairman, International Alliance for Sustainable Coal Use.
In his remarks, H.E. Eng. Hamel highlighted Africa’s growing role in the global energy landscape and its importance within the GECF, with its Member Countries and several new partners. He noted that Africa is rich in natural gas resources, which can play a vital role in supporting sustainable development, expanding access to energy, and fostering industrial growth.
According to the GECF Global Gas Outlook 2050, Africa’s gas demand is expected to more than double by mid-century, driven by power generation, industry, and clean cooking. The Secretary General emphasised that natural gas is not only a reliable and affordable energy source, but also a foundation for social and economic progress across the continent.
He concluded by reaffirming the GECF’s commitment to supporting Africa’s energy development through investment, technology exchange, and capacity building — ensuring that natural gas continues to serve as a key driver of prosperity and stability for the continent.