• Algeria dismissed Sonatrach CEO Rachid Hachichi after two years in office.
• Noureddine Daoudi becomes the third CEO in less than six years.
• Sonatrach prepares a $60 billion investment plan for 2025–2029.

The Algerian government executed a new leadership change at Sonatrach on Sunday, October 26, 2025. The Ministry of Energy and Mines announced the dismissal of Hachichi and confirmed the decision with approval from Minister Mohamed Arkab.

Noureddine Daoudi, a former exploration executive at Sonatrach and former head of the National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources (ALNAFT), replaces Hachichi. He becomes the company’s third CEO in less than six years.

Daoudi is a geologist by training and a long-serving Sonatrach executive. He spent more than 35 years at the group, including 32 years in exploration activities. He led ALNAFT from 2020 to 2023 before returning to Sonatrach.

His appointment occurs at a crucial moment. Sonatrach is preparing to implement a $60 billion investment plan for 2025–2029. The company aims to boost exploration, strengthen production and accelerate technological modernization. The plan also seeks to secure new reserves.

The ministry issued a statement thanking Hachichi for his service and confirming the appointment of Daoudi. Officials present the leadership change as a strategic decision designed to “revitalize” the company.

Daoudi enters office at a pivotal stage for Algeria’s hydrocarbon sector. He must handle several priorities mandated by authorities. These include reviving onshore and offshore exploration, accelerating gas exports, modernizing production facilities and supporting Sonatrach’s digital and energy transition.

This article was initially published in French by Abdel-Latif Boureima

Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum