In a momentous development for Angola’s energy sector, the country has discovered significant offshore natural gas reserves, marking a pivotal shift in its exploration strategy. The National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency (ANPG) announced that Azule Energy, the joint venture between BP and Eni, drilled the first dedicated gas exploration well, Gajajeira-01, in the Lower Congo Basin.
According to preliminary assessments, the Gajajeira-01 well harbors over 1 trillion cubic feet of natural gas alongside up to 100 million barrels of condensates. This positions Angola for a potential surge in natural gas production, which could diversify its hydrocarbon output and enhance long-term energy security.
Adriano Mongini, CEO of Azule Energy, expressed optimism about the discovery in a joint statement: “This is a historic moment for gas exploration in Angola. The success of the Gajajeira-01 well strengthens our confidence in the untapped potential of the Lower Congo Basin.”
The drilling took place in Block 1/14, with Azule Energy holding a 35% stake. Partners in the consortium include Equinor (30%), Sonangol E&P (25%), and Acrep, a private Angolan firm (10%). This well is the first in Angola specifically drilled for natural gas, reflecting a strategic pivot from the country’s historical focus on oil.
The timing of this discovery is particularly significant as Angola seeks to overhaul its energy strategy after its 2023 withdrawal from OPEC. While maintaining oil production levels, Angola is increasingly focusing on natural gas as a complementary resource to drive economic growth, enhance power generation, and potentially boost liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports.
Energy analysts, including those from the International Energy Agency, suggest that Angola could emerge as a regional gas hub within the next decade, especially if further discoveries follow in the Lower Congo and Kwanza basins.
The government’s renewed focus on natural gas aligns with global trends towards cleaner energy sources, and the successful exploration of Gajajeira-01 could be a catalyst for further investment in the sector. As Angola positions itself on the global energy map, insiders hint at upcoming agreements with international energy firms, potentially to be revealed by late 2025, aiming to accelerate gas infrastructure development and export capabilities.
