Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd is planning further drilling in the Damara Fold Belt after reporting oil indications that demonstrate a working petroleum system, according to the company.
The company’s Naingopo well, on Petroleum Exploration Licence 073, reached a total depth of 4,184 metres on November 26 and encountered over 50 metres of net reservoir in the Otavi Group, based on log analysis and rock fluorescence observations.
Oil indications were observed in the Otavi Group, and further confirmation will be obtained through side wall core analysis, ReconAfrica said.
However, the primary Otavi objective above the main fault was not penetrated due to seismic uncertainties.
“We are excited about the results of this well, which opens the play and demonstrates a working petroleum system within the Damara Fold Belt,” said Brian Reinsborough, ReconAfrica’s CEO.
Reinsborough highlighted the significance of finding over 50 metres of net reservoir with indications of oil.
“Multiple indications of oil were encountered in the Naingopo well and we plan to continue to analyse all fluid and rock samples, which may take several months,” the CEO added.
Chris Sembritzky, senior vice president of exploration, highlighted the well’s role in improving the company’s understanding of the Damara Fold Belt. “The Naingopo well was invaluable for unlocking our understanding of the play, as well as for further derisking the petroleum system elements and specific prospects,” Sembritzky said. “We may return to Naingopo for further appraisal drilling to fully test the extent of the structure.”
ReconAfrica, which holds a 70% working interest in PEL 73 and operates the concession alongside partners BW Energy Limited (20%) and NAMCOR (10%), plans to continue analysis of core and fluid samples. A 3D seismic acquisition program covering Rift Basin and Damara Fold Belt locations is set to begin in the second half of 2025.