TotalEnergies is facing significant scrutiny in Africa, with numerous nations ending partnerships they deem disadvantageous. The firm’s $20 billion Mozambique LNG project, intended to produce 13 million tons of gas annually, has become a primary point of contention. After being stalled by security threats, the venture resumed in 2026, only to encounter fierce resistance from environmental organizations concerned about its ecological footprint.
Construction activities are damaging sensitive marine ecosystems, specifically coral reefs. Satellite analysis confirms that dredging for pipelines has already harmed these structures. While TotalEnergies admits some reef removal is necessary, critics suggest that ecological recovery could span decades. Furthermore, experts estimate that the project could release 4.4 billion tonnes of CO₂ over its lifespan, an amount surpassing the annual emissions of the entire European Union.
Deforestation is also a major concern, as satellite evidence shows 320 hectares of land have been cleared, including regions previously designated for preservation. In 2025, a coalition of 126 non-governmental organizations urged financial institutions to pull support for the project. Additionally, groups like Friends of the Earth and EarthRights International have sued the U.S. Export-Import Bank, challenging the $5 billion in funding provided for the initiative.
The legal challenge highlights the displacement of local residents and reported human rights abuses. Critics argue that the project serves only to enrich French interests and a narrow political elite, ignoring the suffering of local families who have lost their land and livelihoods. Despite the backlash, TotalEnergies maintains that its operations meet rigorous standards, though detractors argue that mitigation strategies remain ill-defined. The future of the project remains uncertain as the potential for long-term environmental and humanitarian damage continues to fuel public opposition.