CAPE TOWN, South Africa October 13, 2026 Environmental activists have protested outside the African Energy Week conference in Cape Town, demanding an end to new oil and gas exploration projects across Africa.
Campaigners from Greenpeace Africa and Extinction Rebellion gathered outside the event on Tuesday, accusing energy companies of putting profits ahead of environmental protection and the well-being of local communities.
The demonstrators challenged efforts to promote Africa as a major destination for fossil fuel investment, arguing that expanding oil and gas production could worsen climate change and increase the risks facing vulnerable communities.
According to the Associated Press, police removed protesters wearing T-shirts bearing the message “Make polluters pay.”
Activists Challenge Africa's Fossil Fuel Expansion
The protest comes as African governments and energy companies consider how to develop the continent's natural resources while addressing electricity shortages, economic development and climate concerns.
Greenpeace Africa campaigner Siya Myeza criticised the role of international oil companies in Africa, arguing that communities and ecosystems could bear the costs of expanded fossil fuel production while companies benefit financially.
Campaigners also questioned whether further investment in oil and gas is compatible with international efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Judy Scott-Goldman of Extinction Rebellion said activists opposed new oil and gas exploration across the continent, stressing the need to accelerate the transition towards cleaner energy sources.
South Africa Faces an Energy Development Debate
South Africa is seeking investment in its energy sector to strengthen electricity supplies and support economic growth. Government officials have presented natural gas as a potential complement to renewable sources such as wind and solar power.
Gas-fired power plants can provide electricity when renewable generation falls, supporters argue. However, environmental campaigners warn that investing in new fossil fuel infrastructure could prolong dependence on polluting energy sources.
The disagreement highlights a wider debate across Africa: how to expand reliable electricity access and create jobs without increasing environmental damage.
Shell's Offshore Exploration Plans Draw Attention
The debate also centres on proposed offshore exploration projects. British energy company Shell plans to drill as many as five deepwater wells in the Northern Cape Ultra Deep block off South Africa's west coast to assess potential oil and gas deposits.
The project has faced environmental appeals, reflecting concerns about the possible consequences of offshore exploration for marine ecosystems and coastal communities.
Environmental organisations argue that governments should direct more investment towards renewable energy and projects that support communities while limiting pollution.
Climate Change and Communities at the Centre
Campaigners say the consequences of climate change are already affecting communities through extreme weather, flooding, fires and pressure on food supplies.
They warn that continued fossil fuel expansion could increase these risks and deepen existing social and economic challenges.
Energy industry supporters, meanwhile, point to the importance of investment, employment, energy security and access to reliable electricity. The challenge for policymakers is balancing these development priorities with environmental commitments.
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