• ReconAfrica analysing seismic data on offshore Gabon block
• Study aims to identify hydrocarbon prospects, no drilling yet
• Four-year exploration phase includes studies and planned well drilling

ReconAfrica is analysing seismic data on its offshore Gabon block, six months after acquiring the Ngulu permit, formerly known as block C-7.

The work, announced on Thursday, aims to refine understanding of the subsurface geology across the 1,214-square-kilometre block. The company said it hopes to identify potential hydrocarbon-bearing structures.

No drilling programme has been announced at this stage. ReconAfrica expects the technical assessments to reduce uncertainty over the permit’s potential and identify possible drilling targets.

The work is being conducted under a production-sharing contract and joint venture agreement signed in September with the Gabonese government and Gabon Oil Company.

The agreement provides for an initial four-year exploration phase starting in September 2025, with the option of a one-time extension if work is ongoing. It also allows the project to move to appraisal and production phases.

ReconAfrica has committed to a minimum work programme during the initial phase, including subsurface studies and the processing of existing seismic data. The company also plans to drill at least one well and estimates total costs at around $19 million over four years.

Abdel-Latif Boureima