Senator Ted Cruz pledged that Washington would stand behind Africa’s energy ambitions. “The U.S. should be a strong and committed partner in Africa’s energy future, supporting robust investment in exploration, production and infrastructure,” he said. NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, said exploration is firmly back on the continent, but warned that policy delays could derail progress. “The state of African energy is resilient. New oil and gas projects are not optional – they are essential.