Equatorial Guinea leads regional greener development effort for oil and gas sector

Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema visited Equatorial Guinea’s Golden Swan industrial complex on June 5 during his official trip to Malabo. The complex is a testament to Equatorial Guinea’s effort to lead greener development of the country’s oil and gas sector, according to the African Energy Chamber (AEC).

“As the continent intensifies efforts to industrialise responsibly, Golden Swan – and Equatorial Guinea, under the leadership of President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, whose commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship has been instrumental – is demonstrating that environmental protection and energy development can and must go hand in hand,” the AEC said in a press release on June 16.

The Golden Swan industrial complex demonstrates Equatorial Guinea’s achievement and self-sufficiency in the processing of hazardous industrial waste. The presidential delegation viewed industrial incinerators and advanced recycling facilities for medical waste, plastics, batteries and waste oil, and also visited a wastewater plant.

According to the AEC, the Golden Swan model directly addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing Africa’s hydrocarbons sector - the management of hazardous and industrial waste generated by upstream and downstream operations.

“By achieving self-sufficiency in this area, Equatorial Guinea not only protects its ecosystems and communities, but also strengthens its position as a responsible, forward-looking energy producer,” the Chamber said, adding that facilities like the Golden Swan could serve as blueprints for governments and companies striving to build energy industries that were both profitable and sustainable.

The visit also paved the way for practical collaboration between Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, moving beyond mere high-level discussions, the AEC said, noting that there now was a potential for technical partnerships, joint initiatives, and the exchange of expertise that could lead to the development of comparable waste management facilities throughout the region.

The Chamber urged both governments to formalise their partnership and take concrete action to bring that vision to life.

“This is a defining example of how African oil and gas producers can lead on environmental issues rather than follow,” said AEC’s executive chairman NJ Ayuk. “Golden Swan shows what is possible when governments and industry come together with a clear purpose. It sets the bar higher, and it invites others on the continent to match or exceed that standard. This is good for our industry, good for our people, and good for Africa’s future,” he added.

According to the AEC, Golden Swan’s success demonstrates that Africa’s energy sector can drive industrialisation while respecting the environment. With more countries following, Africa would be better placed to attract investment, create jobs and ensure long-term sustainability.

“The AEC welcomes this milestone and encourages all oil and gas stakeholders to build on Golden Swan’s example by innovating, collaborating and driving Africa’s growth while protecting its natural heritage,” the press statement said.