Independent operators in Namibia’s Orange Basin are advancing ambitious exploration campaigns aimed at driving the country toward first oil production. Rhino Resources is currently advancing one of the most active exploration campaigns in the region, having announced multiple discoveries in 2025, including Sagittarius-1X, Capricornus-1X, and, most recently, Voltans-1X, which was announced on October 1.
The Volans-1X well, located in Block 2914A of the Orange Basin, discovered a productive zone with high-yielding liquid gas condensate. Drilling commenced on July 31, 2025, using the Deepsea Mira semi-submersible unit. On August 30, the well reached a total depth of 4,497.5 meters, encountering 26 meters of net productive zone in Upper Cretaceous reservoirs with excellent petrophysical properties, no water contact, and a remarkable condensate-to-gas ratio greater than 140.
Rhino Resources CEO Travis Smithard attributed the success to balancing vision with determination and resilience while mitigating risk, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and partnership with service companies. The company operates Block PEL85 with a 42.5% interest alongside Azule Energy (42.5%), NAMCOR (10%), and Korres Investments (5%).
Other independent operators are also building portfolios in Namibia. Oregen Energy Corporation has increased its ownership in WestOil Limited to 48.5%, giving it a 33.95% indirect working interest in Block 2712A. Toronto-based Sintana Energy holds interests in five offshore assets and one onshore block across three basins, with partners securing a second 12-month extension for Block PEL 79.
Azule Energy, Angola’s largest independent equity producer of oil and gas, made its entry into Namibia in December 2024 by farming into PEL 85, marking a strategic move to leverage its experience gained in Angola to advance Namibia toward first oil production.
Sources: aecweek.com, inspenet.com