THE African Energy Chamber (AEC) has released its eagerly awaited list of Africa’s Top 40 Movers and Shakers to Watch in 2025. The annual ranking highlights a dynamic mix of policymakers, corporate executives, and innovators shaping the future of Africa’s oil, gas, and energy industries.
This year’s selection celebrates individuals advancing Africa’s energy potential by driving investment, promoting sustainability, and overcoming sector challenges. NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC, described the list as ‘a call to action for Africa’s energy leaders to deliver transformative solutions and Make Energy Poverty History.’
Influential leaders driving change
Among the prominent figures is US President Donald Trump, whose policies on fossil fuels and support for American companies could redefine US-Africa energy relations, opening opportunities for investment while challenging global financing policies on oil and gas projects.
Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo takes a key spot on the list for spearheading the country’s major LNG projects, including Coral Norte FLNG, Mozambique LNG, and Rovuma LNG, while prioritising local business participation. Similarly, Ghana’s President John Mahama is recognised for his focus on reforming Ghana’s energy sector, attracting investment, and opening new oil blocks.
Other notable leaders include South Sudan’s Minister of Petroleum, Puot Kang Chol, who is tasked with revitalising oil production amidst sanctions, and Uganda’s Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, overseeing the $6 billion Tilenga and Kingfisher oil projects with a goal of achieving first oil by 2025.
In North Africa, Libya’s Minister of Oil & Gas, Dr Khalifa Abdulsadek, is leading efforts to revitalise the sector through licensing rounds and a multi-billion-dollar project pipeline, while Algeria’s Sonatrach CEO, Rachid Hachichi, is bolstering regional energy ties with key exploration partnerships.
Private sector leaders making an lmpact
From the private sector, Claudio Descalzi, CEO of Eni, stands out for advancing low-carbon oil and gas projects across West and North Africa, while ExxonMobil Angola’s Managing Director, Katrina Fisher, is celebrated for driving exploration and empowering local communities.
Jean-Michel Jacoulot, CEO of Trident Energy, has been instrumental in revitalising mature oilfields in the Republic of Congo, and Meg O’Neill, CEO of Woodside Energy, is credited with bringing Senegal’s Sangomar oilfield into production, shaping the region’s energy future.
Other key private-sector leaders include Ahonsi Unuigbe of Petralon Energy, driving expansion through acquisitions in Nigeria, and Nosa Omorodion of SLB Nigeria, focusing on decarbonisation and innovation.
Financing Africa’s energy future
In financing, Benedict Oramah, President of the African Export-Import Bank, leads efforts to establish the Africa Energy Bank, addressing investment gaps and enabling sustainable energy projects. Meanwhile, Rene Awambeng, Founder of Premier Invest, is reshaping Africa’s energy financing through innovative deal-making and transformative investments.
Recognising leadership amidst transformation
The AEC’s Top 40 list reflects the evolving priorities of Africa’s energy sector, from local content development and investment mobilisation to balancing environmental sustainability with industrial growth. These leaders are at the forefront of addressing these challenges while inspiring confidence among investors, stakeholders, and local communities.
‘This list represents Africa’s brightest minds and boldest leaders,’ Ayuk said. ‘Their contributions will be critical to addressing industry challenges, fostering growth, and ensuring energy security for the continent.’
A platform for collaboration
As Africa navigates its energy transformation, platforms like African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies, scheduled for September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town, will provide opportunities for collaboration and dialogue. Many of the individuals featured on the Top 40 list will participate, giving stakeholders a chance to engage directly with the visionaries shaping Africa’s energy future.
For the full list of Africa’s Top 40 Movers and Shakers in 2025, visit the AEC’s website.
