Independent Report
Dakar | December 10, 2025
The Secretary Generals of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) and the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization (APPO) were honored at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power 2025 conference for their contributions to strengthening regional and global energy collaboration.
Eng. Mohamed Hamel, Secretary General of the GECF, received the Gas Market Development & Innovation Award during the event’s opening ceremony on December 9. The recognition highlights his efforts in promoting global gas cooperation during a transformative period for the MSGBC basin. Under his leadership, the GECF has supported policy alignment, improved market transparency, and advanced data-driven analysis, helping emerging LNG producers such as Senegal and Mauritania integrate effectively into global energy markets.
Hamel emphasized natural gas as a key pillar for industrialization and stability, stating that the GECF remains committed to supporting new producers with insights, dialogue, and collaboration to ensure long-term and inclusive prosperity.
Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, Secretary General of APPO, received the Regional Energy Collaborator Award for his leadership in accelerating Africa-led energy development. His initiatives have strengthened policy harmonization among member states and advanced joint regional energy programs. He also championed the establishment of the African Energy Bank, designed to mobilize significant financing for oil, gas, and related infrastructure projects across the continent.
Dr. Ibrahim noted that African energy development must shift toward domestic capacity-building, reduced reliance on external markets, and strategic continental cooperation.
The recognition of both leaders underscores the growing importance of coordinated regional strategies as West Africa moves into a new phase of oil and gas expansion.
