On his recent trip to Maputo, the CEO of Total PATRICK POUYANNÉ discussed with PR FILIPE NYUSI the security situation in Cabo Delgado province and the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) hub in Palma, in relation to which a joint memorandum was recently signed between the State and the two promoting consortia - represented respectively by Total and ExxonMobil, - the only one involving both. As a result of this deal, which extends the reserved area, the Afungi complex will be protected by c. 1,000 elements, including military, police and some employees hired by Total.

There is also an increase in maritime security in the Pemba-Palma corridor. Islamic-inspired armed groups active in the region, although using only small boats, have been attacking and taking over some of the islands in Quirimbas archipelago, which could compromise the safety of the sea route to Palma.

With the development of the construction phase of the LNG hub, Total will reach the peak of manpower in the coming months. The military personnel deployed in Afungi will also escort local workers who live outside the camp (AM 1261/1263). Particular source of concern in FADM circles is the possibility of attacks on the Palma region, given the possibility of delays in the construction of the infrastructure of the LNG projects, which could imply a postponement of the start of production (AM 1258). READ MORE