Cairo: Egypt ranked among the top 10 African countries with the largest proven oil reserves in 2026, highlighting the significance of the energy sector in bolstering the national economy and improving energy security.

According to State Information Service Egypt, Egypt's proven oil reserves are estimated at about 3.3 billion barrels, ranking sixth in Africa and 26th worldwide.

The report highlighted Egypt's growing role as a regional energy hub, supported by natural gas discoveries in the Mediterranean, with oil production contributing to domestic consumption and exports.

Oil has long been one of Africa's most powerful economic assets. In Africa, Libya holds the largest proven oil reserves, estimated at 48.4 billion barrels, ranking ninth globally, according to the latest Global Firepower report.

Nigeria and Algeria came second and third respectively on the African list, followed by Angola, South Sudan, and Egypt, while the Congo Republic, Uganda, Gabon, and Chad made up the top 10.

From North Africa's vast desert fields to offshore platforms along the Atlantic coast, crude oil has funded infrastructure, created global trade links, and, in many cases, exposed economies to boom-and-bust cycles.

Even as the world talks up energy transition, oil remains essential to Africa's growth story, providing revenue, jobs, and geopolitical leverage, the report added.