Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
11 May 2025 | 10:48 CAT

South Africa is facing a looming gas crisis as the primary supply from Mozambique shows signs of decline. Image: Pixabay

South Africa is fast approaching a critical juncture in its energy security, with experts warning of a “gas cliff” set to hit by June 2026. This imminent depletion of the Pande-Tamane gas fields in Mozambique — South Africa’s primary source of natural gas — could endanger more than 70,000 jobs and cripple key manufacturing industries across the country.

Speaking on Radio Islam International, Professor David Phaho emphasised the urgency of the situation: “Unless we do something drastic in the next couple of years, we will run out of gas.” The knock-on effect would be significant, with gas not only powering industries but also serving as vital feedstock for subsoil petrochemical operations.

To mitigate this, the African Energy Leadership Centre and IGU-ASA recently hosted a symposium exploring sustainable solutions. Among them, the import of liquefied natural gas from international suppliers, including Qatar, was tabled. Phaho noted three potential import routes — through Richards Bay, Durban, or Matola in Mozambique — stressing the need for rapid infrastructure development: “These ports need sophisticated infrastructure… and public-private partnerships are now accelerating this work.”

Short-term imports aside, Phaho underlined the long-term necessity for domestic development. He pointed to gas-rich areas such as the offshore Orange Basin and various onshore sites, urging South Africa to harness its own resources: “Security of supply is critical. We must explore and develop our indigenous natural gas.”

Crucially, Phaho also addressed the role of natural gas in South Africa’s energy transition. As a cleaner-burning fossil fuel, it provides a bridge toward a low-carbon future. “Natural gas emits significantly less CO₂ than coal. It is a critical transition fuel in meeting our 2050 climate goals,” he explained.

With climate change already affecting weather patterns and South Africa being one of the world’s top CO₂ emitters, Phaho concluded: “This is not just about industry. It’s about climate responsibility.”

The message is clear: time is running out, and decisive action is no longer optional.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round-Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany Professor David Phaho here.