Reconnaissance Energy Africa (Recon Africa) says it is moving forward with its high-impact drilling project in the Damara fold Belt.
The company is utilising a custom-built drilling rig for a series of back-to-back wells, with initial results expected by October. If successful, the next phase will involve appraisal drilling to prepare for production.
According to Recon’s CEO Brian Reinsborough, the company’s operations focus on cost-efficient onshore drilling, with wells costing between N$260 million (US$15 million) a fraction of the N$2.60 billion (US$150 million) needed for deep-water projects.
This allows the company to accelerate its timeline and potentially bring early production online by 2027.
“Our drilling plan involves executing a series of back-to-back wells around the Naingapo prospect, with each well taking roughly three months to complete. We expect to disclose the results of the current well by October, after which we’ll move to the next prospect, Kambundu,” he said.
“We have in-country access to testing equipment, and our plan is to conduct production tests on both prospects if they are successful. From there, we will proceed with appraisal drilling, adding one more well on each structure. This will give us four wells in the fold belt, which will bring production online via an early production system.”
Reinsborough added that in addition to ongoing drilling, Recon is planning a 3D seismic survey to explore further prospects in the Rift Basin.
The company has identified 19 potential oil targets, and early findings suggest the presence of hydrocarbons across various reservoirs.
“We’re also planning a 3D seismic survey, having recently received our environmental clearance certificate, which gives us the green light to proceed. Our company previously drilled in this area and found oil, but the seismic density was insufficient to develop a comprehensive inventory and identify the best prospects. We aim to implement this seismic program and expect to be ready to drill a second play in the concession by mid-next year, positioning us well for future exploration,” he said.
He further explained that Recon benefits from key logistical advantages, including proximity to infrastructure like roads, rail, and electrical lines, which will facilitate oil and gas transport. If successful, this could mark Namibia’s first oil production.
