ReconAfrica’s Onshore Exploration in Namibia Boosts African Oil and Gas Development
Reconnaissance Energy Africa (ReconAfrica) has announced a significant progress in its exploration efforts in Namibia’s Kavango basin, reaffirming the broader development plans for Africa’s oil and gas sector.
The Canadian independent firm, known for its innovative and data-driven exploration approach, has recently spudded the Naingopo-1 exploration well in the Damara Fold Belt.
ReconAfrica, in partnership with the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (NAMCOR), has been actively drilling in the Kavango basin since 2020. Their latest endeavor, the Naingopo-1 well, aims to reach a depth of approximately 3,800 meters within 90 days. This well is crucial for assessing the basin’s prospectivity.
The company’s previous test wells in the region have identified five potential conventional reservoir zones, confirming over 650 feet of net reservoir with substantial hydrocarbon presence. This suggests significant potential discoveries in the region.
Additionally, ReconAfrica has completed around 30% of a 450-kilometer seismic field acquisition program, which is on track to inform future drilling locations.
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, praised ReconAfrica’s efforts, stating, “ReconAfrica’s exploration efforts in the Kavango basin affirm its commitment to discovering and developing new energy resources in Africa’s frontier markets, particularly focusing on untapped onshore potential to unlock significant oil and gas resources.
The company’s efforts also align with broader initiatives to enhance regional energy security and stimulate economic growth through sustainable resource development.”
ReconAfrica’s activities align with a broader trend of increased exploration across Africa. Countries like Angola are set to launch a frontier licensing round in early 2025, with promising prospects in the Lower Congo and Kwanza basins. Similarly, Mozambique, Uganda, and Tanzania are opening new exploration frontiers, offering attractive opportunities for independent companies.
Uganda’s portion of the Lake Albert basin, particularly the Albertine Graben, is estimated to contain around 6.5 billion barrels of oil reserves, showcasing the promising prospects within the region.
As ReconAfrica continues its exploration in Namibia, its efforts contribute significantly to the broader vision of unlocking Africa’s onshore oil and gas potential, fostering economic growth and enhancing energy security across the continent.
