TotalEnergies and ExxonMobil have launched a joint bid process for marine services to support their respective LNG projects in Mozambique—the 13 million tpa Mozambique LNG and the 18 million tpa Rovuma LNG. The tender, requiring responses by 4 March, seeks safe and efficient transportation, loading, and unloading of LNG, as well as shared marine infrastructure near the Afungi construction site south of Palma.

Marine Service Requirements and Vessel Needs

The workscope includes vessel berthing at an LNG jetty and material offloading facility at Afungi, plus towage, pilotage, mooring, and emergency response services. The companies require a fleet of eight vessels: five tugs with 80-tonne bollard pull capacity, two work boats, and one pilot boat. Annually, these vessels will handle 160 LNG and 10 condensate tankers for Mozambique LNG, and 220 LNG and 15 condensate tankers for the larger Rovuma LNG. They will also regularly deliver consumables like diesel, spare parts, and food to the material offloading facility.

Security Context and Insurgent Activity

This marine operation will occur in a region where Islamist insurgents, specifically Islamic State Mozambique (ISM), are active along the coast of Cabo Delgado province. Recent incidents include a clash between Mozambican naval patrols and insurgents near Muissune Island in late January, and reports of ISM fighters moving freely along the coast, including near Palma and just 20 kilometres from Afungi, to seek supplies.

Government Maritime Security Initiatives

In response to the threat, Mozambique's President Daniel Chapo launched a new strategic directive to tackle terrorism, emphasizing maritime control as essential to neutralizing insurgent groups. The initiative aims to block insurgent logistics lines and strengthen control over the country's 2700-kilometre coastline, with the navy playing a central role. As part of this effort, Rear-Admiral Estevao Nchokomala was promoted to commander of the navy.

Additional Security Measures for the LNG Park

Separately, TotalEnergies and ExxonMobil are also evaluating responses to an expression of interest for perimeter security at the "LNG Park" in Afungi. This scope involves deploying unarmed security personnel at main perimeter access points and employing control room operators to manage maritime and access issues.

Project Timelines

Mozambique LNG is scheduled to start up in 2029, with Rovuma LNG expected to follow in 2030 or 2031, pending a final investment decision this year.