Top 10 African Countries Fueling Natural Gas Demand in 2025

Natural gas is becoming an increasingly important part of Africa’s energy mix, with several countries consuming high volumes in 2025. This shift reflects a broader effort to tackle energy poverty and drive economic development across the continent.

With millions of Africans still lacking access to reliable electricity, natural gas offers a dependable and cleaner alternative to coal and diesel, which currently dominate power generation. Its lower carbon emissions make it a suitable bridge fuel as countries transition towards renewable energy sources.

Rising domestic gas use also helps countries reduce reliance on costly imported petroleum, easing pressure on foreign reserves and shielding economies from oil price volatility. By using indigenous gas resources, governments can stabilise energy prices and support industrialisation.

Moreover, infrastructure projects such as pipelines and LNG terminals are expanding regional energy trade and creating jobs. The development of gas-powered industries and rural electrification projects is accelerating, contributing to economic growth and improved living standards.

As more gas is harnessed for local consumption, usage is expected to keep rising. Natural gas is shaping Africa’s energy future—powering homes, businesses, and cities—while supporting climate goals and long-term development plans.

According to data from Global Firepower, here are the top 10 African countries fueling natural gas demand in 2025 in cubic metres:

1. Egypt – 60.1 billion Cu.M
Global Rank: 13th

Egypt is Africa’s largest natural gas consumer. The demand comes mainly from electricity generation, industry, and transport. Its gas projects and pipelines keep expanding, supporting domestic use and exports.

2. Algeria – 48 billion Cu.M
Global Rank: 18th

Algeria’s long history with natural gas continues. While it exports a large portion, domestic consumption remains high, especially in power generation and local industries.

3. Nigeria – 20.7 billion Cu.M
Global Rank: 36th

Nigeria is rich in gas reserves, but much of its potential remains underused. Still, demand is rising due to gas-fired power plants and industrial needs. The country is pushing to reduce flaring and increase domestic use.

4. Libya – 9.2 billion Cu.M
Global Rank: 49th

Libya depends on gas for local energy needs. Despite challenges in infrastructure and stability, it remains one of the top consumers in North Africa.

5. Tunisia – 5.2 billion Cu.M
Global Rank: 57th

Gas plays a major role in Tunisia’s energy sector, especially for electricity. The country also imports gas through regional pipelines to meet its demand.

6. South Africa – 4.5 billion Cu.M
Global Rank: 60th

South Africa’s gas use is growing slowly. With coal still dominant, the shift to gas is seen as part of the country’s long-term energy transition strategy.

7. Ghana – 3.9 billion Cu.M
Global Rank: 62nd

Ghana uses natural gas mainly for power generation. The country is investing in new infrastructure to expand its domestic gas market and reduce reliance on imports.

8. Ivory Coast – 2.6 billion Cu.M
Global Rank: 73rd

Natural gas is vital for Ivory Coast’s electricity supply. As urban areas grow, so does energy demand, and gas is helping fill the gap.

9. Tanzania – 1.8 billion Cu.M
Global Rank: 79th

Tanzania is slowly increasing gas use, mainly through local power plants. Offshore discoveries are expected to boost both consumption and exports in the future.