10 African Nations with Minimal Natural Gas Use in 2025

Have you ever wondered why some countries with abundant natural resources are not reaping their full benefits? This is a curious predicament faced by numerous countries across Africa. Despite possessing vast reserves of natural gas, a remarkable resource that lies buried beneath their soil, many African nations continue to experience relatively low usage of this potential powerhouse. What are the underlying reasons for this paradox, and what implications might it have on various facets of society?

At the center of this mystery lies policy issues and subpar infrastructure—two aspects that serve as barricades to efficient energy utilization. The results of this underutilization extend far beyond mere economic metrics. They stretch into the domains of social and environmental well-being, for better or worse.

One might ask, “Why does low natural gas consumption matter?” Consider the exponential growth potential stifled by such limited usage. These untapped reserves could drive industrial development and fuel economic expansion.

Various industries, from manufacturing to electricity generation and petrochemicals, rely on natural gas as a cost-effective energy source. Without tapping into this resource, firms may encounter elevated operating costs, constraining their competitiveness and economic performance. Who’s to say what progress might be unlocked with proper utilization?

Let’s delve into energy security. Natural gas can be pivotal in ensuring a stable and long-term energy supply. Yet, nations with limited natural gas usage often face power shortages, sky-high electricity costs, and fluctuating energy availability.

A thought experiment: Imagine a bustling industry slowed by power cuts and households wrestling with increasing energy costs. The ripple effects touch everyone, from industry moguls to everyday families, complicating everyday living and curtailing economic momentum.

When natural gas usage is minimal, countries often resort to more unforgiving energy sources such as coal, firewood, and diesel. These alternatives are but a temporary fix, albeit with lasting repercussions. Deforestation, copious carbon emissions, and severe air pollution highlight the unintended consequences on climate and public health.

Reflect on households that continue to cook with traditional biomass fuels like firewood and charcoal. The implications extend beyond the kitchen, contributing to deforestation and ushering in indoor pollutants demanding a health toll that cannot go unnoticed.

Expanding our viewpoint, industries such as fertilizers, chemicals, and heavy manufacturing might find their efficiency stymied when operating in environments with scant natural gas usage. Are these sectors reaching their full potential, or are they constrained by energy limitations?

With these points in mind, let’s explore the African nations projected to consume the least amount of natural gas in 2025. According to the data from Global Firepower, an analytic portal on global military power, several countries find themselves on the lower end of natural gas consumption.

It’s essential to note that while some countries are absent altogether from natural gas consumption, others make the list due to their minimal consumption volumes.

Top 10 African Countries With the Lowest Natural Gas Consumption in 2025