THE Gambia’s Ministry of Petroleum and Energy has entered into a significant agreement with H2 Gambia Limited, a subsidiary of HydroGenesis, to explore hydrogen potential within the MSGBC (Mauritania, Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, and Guinea-Conakry) region. The historic deal was inked on the opening day of the African Energy Week 2023 (AEW) in Cape Town.
The memorandum of understanding was formally signed by Ben Sayers, the Director of HydrogenGenesis, and Sheick Omar Bittaye, the Director of Petroleum of the Ministry of Petroleum and Energy of The Gambia. Hon. Abdoulie Jobe, the Minister of Petroleum and Energy for The Gambia, was present to witness the signing, highlighting the significance of the partnership.
The agreement sets the stage for collaborative research aimed at assessing The Gambia’s onshore hydrogen potential. Sheick Omar Bittaye, the Director of Petroleum, emphasised that this partnership would allow for comprehensive research over a one-year period, aligning with The Gambia’s ongoing efforts in energy decarbonisation.
In a statement, Bittaye explained the broader implications of this initiative, saying, ‘In the event we find commercial hydrogen prospects, the deal will enable the optimisation of the entire hydrogen and energy value chain which will, in turn, create more job and economic growth opportunities for the local people.’
Additionally, a follow-up agreement is on the horizon, which will facilitate hydrogen production should H2 Gambia Limited discover commercially viable hydrogen resources in the country. This development comes at a time when The Gambia is actively intensifying its energy exploration projects through strategic partnerships with global oil, gas, and hydrogen energy companies, aiming to enhance energy security and affordability for its citizens.
This partnership marks a significant step in The Gambia’s commitment to energy diversification, sustainability, and the exploration of innovative energy solutions to meet the growing demands of its population. As the nation looks to secure its energy future, the agreement with H2 Gambia Limited is poised to play a pivotal role in achieving these objectives.
The African Energy Week 2023, organised by Energy Capital & Power, is taking place this week in Cape Town. The event carries a mission to eliminate energy poverty by 2030 and promises to deliver valuable insights and updates related to Africa’s premier energy event. For further information and updates, visit www.AECWeek.com.
