In a significant development for the energy sector in West Africa, the British company British Petroleum (BP) has announced the successful completion of the first shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the Tortue Ahmeyim project, marking the official launch of gas production for both Mauritania and Senegal. This pivotal moment not only underscores the growing role of these nations in the global energy market but also sets the stage for future exports from the region.
According to a statement from BP, "this first shipment confirms the status of Mauritania and Senegal as exporters of natural gas." The successful loading of 170,199 cubic meters of LNG from the GTA field was completed by the British gas carrier, British Radiance, achieving a historic milestone for both countries as they enter the competitive LNG market.
Kepler, a company specializing in analysis and data in commodity markets, has indicated that another British gas carrier, Atalanta, is in the region and is expected to transport a second shipment of Mauritanian-Senegalese gas to global markets. This upcoming shipment is anticipated to further solidify the presence of these nations in the international energy arena.
The first shipment was part of a larger operation that involved a series of transfers from the floating production and storage unit, Gimi, which has been pivotal in facilitating the initial stages of gas production. Between April 11 and April 15, 2025, the British Radiance completed a third transfer of LNG from the Gimi platform, carrying 75,008 cubic meters of natural gas. This transfer followed two earlier operations in late February and early April, bringing the total load of the vessel to 170,199 cubic meters.
As of April 15, 2025, the British Radiance had separated from the Gimi platform but remained close to the Tortue Ahmeyim site, awaiting the official announcement of the start of Mauritanian-Senegalese gas exports. Once this announcement is made, it will mark a significant step in the project that is expected to be the second LNG export facility activated in 2025, following the launch of the third phase of the Corpus Christi project in the United States, which has an annual capacity of 10 million tons.
Gas production at the Ahmeyim field officially commenced on December 31, 2024, with LNG exports beginning on February 10, 2025. The successful completion of these initial shipments is a testament to the collaborative efforts between Mauritania and Senegal and highlights the potential for economic growth and energy independence for both nations.
This development comes at a time when global energy markets are increasingly looking for new sources of natural gas, making the successful export of LNG from Mauritania and Senegal even more timely. With the rising demand for cleaner energy sources, the role of these countries as natural gas exporters is likely to become more prominent in the coming years.
Furthermore, the implications of this project extend beyond just economic benefits. The Tortue Ahmeyim project is seen as a crucial step towards energy security in the region, providing a stable and reliable energy source for both domestic consumption and international export.
As Mauritania and Senegal continue to develop their natural gas resources, the potential for job creation and infrastructure development in the region is substantial. Local communities stand to benefit from increased investment and economic activity, which could lead to improved living standards and opportunities for many.
In conclusion, the successful loading of the first LNG shipment from the Tortue Ahmeyim project marks a historic achievement for Mauritania and Senegal, positioning them as emerging players in the global natural gas market. With further shipments on the horizon and growing demand for LNG, the future looks promising for these West African nations as they embark on this new chapter in their energy journey.
