President Jennifer Simons says that the progress of the GranMorgu project shows that Suriname is taking important steps in the development of its offshore oil industry. The head of state visited TotalEnergies’ activities at the Kuldipsingh Port Facilities on Saturday, September 19, 2026, where she was given a tour of equipment and work related to the project.
Earlier in the day, Simons had received a TotalEnergies delegation at the Kabinet van de President (Office of the President). During her visit to the port facilities, she gained a better understanding of the scale and progress of the multibillion-dollar project, according to the government.
“It is very good to now see for myself that the project is progressing. You have been hearing about it for years, but now I have been able to see it myself. The equipment has arrived and is there. This gives you the impression that the project has now really got off the ground. No turning back,” Simons said.
The president stressed that the development of the oil industry does not automatically mean that every Surinamer will benefit financially. According to her, the country must simultaneously invest in infrastructure, education and vocational training, so that young people in particular can respond to the growing demand for technically and practically trained personnel.
“If you do not study or learn a trade, you will not automatically have money because there is oil. You have to be able to do something,” Simons said.
Minister Patrick Brunings of Olie, Gas en Milieu described the activities surrounding GranMorgu as “very impressive”. He expressed confidence that the planned start of oil production in 2028 can be achieved.
Staatsolie Managing Director Annand Jagesar also pointed to the broader economic significance of the project. According to him, GranMorgu should not be seen solely as an oil project, but also as an opportunity to involve Surinamese companies and communities more strongly in the development of the sector.
“GranMorgu is more than oil production. It is also about creating opportunities for Surinamese companies and communities,” Jagesar said. Investments in local knowledge, training and entrepreneurship should contribute to sustainable economic development, according to him.
TotalEnergies chief Patrick Pouyanné said that the project is progressing according to schedule and has now been completed by approximately 50 percent. Of the total investment of approximately USD 12 billion, around USD 6 billion has reportedly already been spent.
“Our commitment to developing competencies and contributing to the prosperity of the country does not wait until 2028. It is already a reality now,” Pouyanné said.
According to the chief executive, TotalEnergies is also continuing to invest in further exploration off the coast of Suriname. New oil discoveries could in the future contribute to an expansion of activities and a longer production period for the GranMorgu project.
