Niël Terblanché
The National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (NAMCOR) announced the presence of hydrocarbons in the Sagittarius-1X exploration well, drilled offshore in the Orange Basin.
In a statement, issued on Monday, NAMCOR’s executive for upstream exploration, Victoria Sibeya said the Drilling operations commenced on 18 December 2024, in partnership with Rhino Resources (42.5%, operator), Azule Energy (42.5%), NAMCOR (10%), and Korres (5%).
Using the Noble Venturer drillship, the well reached its final depth on 6 February.
She indicated that the drilling was targeting upper cretaceous reservoirs.
“The well successfully encountered a hydrocarbon-bearing formation with no observed water contact,” she said while adding that this indicates a promising sign for the basin’s oil potential.
Sibeya hailed the discovery as a key advancement for Namibia’s energy sector.
“The successful drilling of the Sagittarius-1X well marks a significant step for Namibia’s upstream sector, further strengthening the country’s position in the Orange Basin. The presence of hydrocarbons is an encouraging indicator of the basin’s potential, and we look forward to collaborating with our joint venture partners to fully assess the results of this well,” she said.
Sibeya added that comprehensive wireline logging operations were conducted, allowing the collection of hydrocarbon samples and sidewall cores for further laboratory analysis.
According to her, further testing will confirm the composition and properties of the discovered hydrocarbons.
Sibeya added that following the conclusion of the Sagittarius-1X drilling, the Noble Venturer has moved on to its next target, Capricornus-1X, which is expected to test a separate fairway within the same licence area.
She reiterated that NAMCOR is committed to working alongside its partners to further explore Namibia’s energy potential, enhancing Namibia’s energy security and contributing to the country’s economic development.
