ReconAfrica is gearing up for exploration drilling at the Naingopo Well in Namibia, according to a recent operations update regarding Petroleum Exploration Licence 73 (“PEL 73”) in onshore northeast Namibia.
The company is in the process of moving the working camp and drilling rig from the Wisdom Farm 5-1 location to the Naingopo well site, with operations expected to be fully operational by the end of the month. The drilling is on schedule to commence this month, with the target being 163 MMbbl of unrisked prospective oil resources or 843 Bcf of unrisked prospective natural gas resources, net to ReconAfrica.
President and CEO Brian Reinsborough expressed optimism about the progress, stating that the camp and rig moves are nearing completion. The Jarvie-1 drilling rig has undergone necessary maintenance and certification processes without any major issues, and it is currently being relocated to the Naingopo location.
The conductor hole has already been drilled, and the team is aiming to begin drilling towards the end of the month. The well is expected to take 90 days to drill, focusing on multiple reservoir intervals in the Damara Fold Belt. The joint venture process is also moving forward, with plans to finalize the transaction before drilling begins at the Naingopo well.
SVP Exploration Chris Sembritzky highlighted the anticipation surrounding the upcoming drilling, noting that it will be the first well to test the Damara Fold Belt. Extensive petroleum systems work conducted over the past six months has increased confidence in finding hydrocarbons in the initial well. Additionally, there are four additional prospects and 20 leads mapped and defined for future exploration.
SVP Drilling and Completions Nick Steinsberger expressed excitement about the preparations for the Naingopo well drilling. The operations team is ready, with a mix of Namibian nationals and expats, many of whom have previous experience with the Jarvie-1 rig. All necessary equipment and services for drilling are either on-site or scheduled to arrive in the coming weeks.
The upcoming exploration drilling at the Naingopo Well represents a significant milestone for ReconAfrica as they continue their efforts to unlock the potential of the region’s oil and gas resources. Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting development in Namibia.
