Africa-Press – Angola. The Head of State, João Lourenço, on Wednesday in Luanda reaffirmed Angola’s aspiration to establish itself as a competitive hydrocarbon producer, contributing significantly to global energy security, without neglecting its commitment to the energy transition in Africa and the world.
Speaking at the opening of the 6th Oil and Gas Conference and Exhibition, taking place at the Talatona Conference Center, President João Lourenço emphasized that the government recognizes the gravity of climate change and its increasingly specific effects, but defends the right of hydrocarbon-producing countries, such as Angola, to develop their resources to benefit the population.
“However, this situation must be addressed by guaranteeing the right of hydrocarbon-producing countries, such as Angola, to develop their mineral and hydrocarbon resources for the benefit of their populations,” he emphasized.
The Angolan statesman noted that the government understands that the oil sector’s actions should promote the responsible and sustainable exploitation of fossil fuel resources, allocating part of its revenues and technical capacity to gradually foster and strengthen the emergence of a renewable energy industry, particularly solar, wind, biomass, and other sources.
He recalled that those involved in oil and gas exploration and production activities in Angola have been instructed to adopt measures to mitigate and offset greenhouse gas emissions, particularly the elimination or reduction of gas flaring, the adoption of less environmentally friendly operating equipment, the protection and conservation of flora and fauna, and the implementation of afforestation or reforestation programs.
João Lourenço reiterated the Angolan government’s commitment to continue working closely with partners and international organizations for the sustainable production of oil resources, thus contributing to the energy transition and the diversification of the national economy.
According to the Angolan leader, local content is of strategic importance in the oil sector, “as it ensures that the benefits of natural resource exploitation are shared fairly and sustainably with Angolan society”.
It has become clear that the effective implementation of local content policies requires a solid and ongoing commitment between the State, operating companies, investors, and other private sector partners.
“It also demands the establishment of an environment where the competence, quality, and competitiveness of national companies are not only recognized, but actively promoted and valued”, he emphasized.
João Lourenço also stated that the Angolan population is predominantly young, “therefore, we must channel the energy and creative potential of this segment of the population to serve our economy, which is why it is essential to pay special attention to young people”.
For the Angolan statesman, the oil sector must also play an active role in creating internship opportunities and promoting access to first jobs for young people, encompassing the entire oil industry value chain.
The President hoped that the conference would be a space for constructive dialogue, sharing of ideas, experiences and knowledge, building strong partnerships, and allowing for joint work so that the oil and gas sector continues to be an instrument of economic and social progress, a sector that generates wealth, creates jobs, develops infrastructure, promotes technological innovation and respects the environment.
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