Ivory Coast and African Energy Chamber (AEC) Strengthen Upstream Development and Accelerate Drilling Campaigns
High-Level Discussions in Abidjan
On Tuesday, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) convened high-level discussions in Abidjan with Mamadou Sangafowa Coulibaly, the Minister of Mines, Petroleum and Energy. The focus of the meeting was to accelerate upstream development, enhance investment inflows, and fortify institutional frameworks that support the long-term energy growth of Ivory Coast.
This meeting comes at a pivotal time as Ivory Coast solidifies its status as one of West Africa’s fastest-growing upstream markets. The country is experiencing rising production levels, active drilling campaigns, and a renewed interest from international exploration companies in its offshore acreage.
Key Developments in Upstream Projects
A significant portion of the discussions centered around the performance of Ivory Coast’s flagship upstream projects. The operational results achieved by major international operators were highlighted, showcasing the positive momentum across the basin. Eni’s Baleine project, developed in collaboration with Petroci and Vitol, is crucial to the country’s output growth trajectory. The project is expected to enter its third development phase, which will significantly boost production to approximately 150,000 barrels per day. Additionally, it continues to supply associated gas for domestic power generation, underscoring its strategic importance for national energy security.
The meeting also reviewed ongoing and upcoming drilling activities across various producing assets. VAALCO Energy, in partnership with CNR International, is preparing for a new drilling campaign in offshore Block CI-40, following planned field upgrades. Production increases are anticipated from 2026 as part of a broader redevelopment strategy focused on infill drilling and asset optimization.
Exploration Initiatives and International Interest
The exploration momentum in Ivory Coast’s offshore basin was another focal point of the discussions. Murphy Oil’s planned multi-well drilling campaign, targeting prospects such as Civette, Caracal, and Bubale during the 2025–2026 period, was noted. The meeting acknowledged the renewed international interest in the country’s upstream sector, bolstered by a favorable investment climate. Petrobras’ recent entry into the market through the award of multiple offshore exploration blocks exemplifies this trend.
Institutional and Financing Developments
Institutional reforms and financing developments were also key topics of discussion. The AEC and Minister Coulibaly addressed the ongoing reforms within the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization and the progress toward establishing the Africa Energy Bank. The Minister assured that efforts to operationalize the bank are advancing, with ongoing work to ensure it becomes fully functional. This initiative aims to enhance capital access for African energy projects and strengthen long-term upstream development across the continent.
NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC, remarked that the developments in Ivory Coast represent more than just incremental progress. He emphasized that the country is experiencing a clear acceleration of upstream momentum, with major projects advancing and new exploration opportunities emerging.
Logistics and Infrastructure Support
The AEC also engaged in discussions with Africa Global Logistics (AGL), which is increasingly recognized as a vital logistics and infrastructure partner in Ivory Coast’s oil and gas sector. AGL has positioned itself as a central enabler of upstream activities, providing logistics, transport, and operational support to major exploration companies, including Eni, Murphy Oil, and CNR International. The company is investing in new logistics infrastructure, reinforcing Ivory Coast’s emergence as a regional hub for energy supply chain services while enhancing efficiency and cost competitiveness for operators.
Further discussions included engagements with GES-Petrogaz, a local oil and gas services association. The focus was on strengthening the participation of domestic service providers in the energy value chain, improving the enabling environment for local companies, and expanding opportunities for skills development and entrepreneurship.
Additionally, discussions were held with Société Ivoirienne de Raffinage (SIR), where plans to expand refining capacity were outlined. These efforts aim to enhance national energy security and support the production of lower-carbon fuels as part of Ivory Coast’s broader industrial development strategy.
Source: www.zawya.com
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Published on 2026-06-17 20:53:00 • By the Editorial Desk
