GECF Senior Analyst to Speak at MSGBC 2025 Amid Rapid Regional Gas Expansion
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Dr. Abubakar Abbas, Senior Energy Forecast Analyst at intergovernmental organization the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) joins the speaker lineup at this year’s MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference and exhibition – taking place in Dakar from December 8-10. His participation comes amid a period of rapid gas sector expansion across the MSGBC region and increasing engagement by Senegal and Mauritania with global gas institutions.
Mauritania and Senegal – both of which achieved GECF observer status in 2023 and 2024, respectively – are accelerating their LNG export capabilities following a series of transformative project milestones in 2024 and 2025. Their observer roles allow them to participate in GECF’s technical discussions and access key market intelligence, supporting long-term ambitions to attain full membership once sustained exports are established.
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The region’s most significant recent development is the Greater Tortue Ahemyim (GTA) project, a flagship cross-border deepwater LNG venture operated by energy major bp with partners Kosmos Energy, Senegal’s Petrosen and Mauritania’s SMHPM. The GTA project transitioned into commercial operation in 2024 following first gas in December, first LNG cargo in April and the commencement of the 20-year lease agreement for the Gimi FLNG vessel in June. The project is designed to produce 2.3-2.5 million tons per annum in its first phase, with a second-phase FID anticipated in 2025. Holding more than 15 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of recoverable gas, the GTA project positions Senegal and Mauritania as emerging LNG exporters with supply commitments through 2045.
Other major gas-led developments continue to shape the region’s energy trajectory. In Senegal, the Yakaar-Teranga field – estimated at 15 tcf – is advancing through the FEED stage and first production expected between 2027 and 2028. The project is designed to supply domestic power generation while supporting future LNG exports. Operator Kosmos Energy, holding a 90% stake following bp’s 2023 exit, is currently seeking an additional development partner alongside Petrosen.
In Mauritania, the BirAllah field remains a central pillar of national gas strategy. Estimated at 80 tcf, it is one of the continent’s largest gas discoveries. Following the expiration of the previous development contract with bp and Kosmos Energy in 2024, Mauritania’s state-owned SMH is actively engaging new international partners with the aim of reach FID ahead of a targeted 2030 production start.
“The participation of the GECF at this year’s event brings invaluable global market insight at a time when the MSGBC region is rapidly advancing its gas agenda. His expertise will help frame the region’s emerging role within the wider LNG landscape and deepen dialogue on long-term energy security and investment,” states Sandra Jeque, Events and Project Director, Energy Capital & Power.
As such, Dr. Abbas’ insights at MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 will provide essential context on global gas demand, pricing outlooks and the region’s integration into international markets at a pivotal moment in its development trajectory.