• Home
  • News
  • Shell to start new drilling in Namibia’s Orange Basin in 2026
Image

Shell to start new drilling in Namibia’s Orange Basin in 2026

Shell is set to launch a new exploration drilling campaign in Namibia’s Orange Basin in 2026, targeting commercial oil volumes in the geologically complex Petroleum Exploration Licence (PEL) 39, according to Eduardo Rodriguez, Shell’s country chair.

The announcement signals a renewed push by the supermajor to unlock the region’s potential despite previous setbacks.

Rodriguez emphasized the need for “trust” and “open dialogue” between upstream companies and Namibia’s new government, which assumed office in March 2025, to address the challenges of developing oil and gas in this frontier play. The Orange Basin, known for its geological complexity, has posed significant hurdles for commercial extraction.

Earlier this year, Shell reported multiple oil discoveries in PEL 39, including Graff and Jonker. However, none were deemed economically viable, leading to a substantial write-off. The 2026 drilling drive reflects Shell’s determination to refine its approach and identify commercially sustainable reserves in the region.

ALSO READ: ALAIN NKONTCHOU BUYS NEDBANK’S ECOBANK STAKE FOR $100M

The initiative underscores Namibia’s growing importance in global energy exploration, with Shell aiming to collaborate closely with the government to navigate regulatory and technical challenges. Industry analysts view this as a critical step for both Shell and Namibia to establish the Orange Basin as a viable oil-producing region.

Related Posts

Stanbic IBTC backs PenCom reforms to enhance Nigeria’s pension system

Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers Limited, a key subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC, has publicly reaffirmed its strong…

AFC partners with Lagos Fashion Week 2025 to boost creative economy

Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), the continent’s leading infrastructure solutions provider, has announced its partnership with Lagos Fashion Week…

Lake Gas gains foothold in Kenya’s cooking gas market

Tanzanian oil marketer, Lake Gas has captured a 2% share of Kenya’s imported cooking gas market, breaking into…

Angola Cables names Samuel Carvalho as TelCables Europe CEO

Angola Cables has appointed Samuel Carvalho, its current Chief Marketing Officer, as the new CEO of its European…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *