Côte d’Ivoire is solidifying its position as one of West Africa’s most rapidly expanding upstream oil and gas markets, driven by major offshore developments, new drilling campaigns, and growing international investment interest that are propelling the country into its next phase of oil and gas expansion.
Central to the country’s growth projections is the development of the Baleine field, operated by Eni in partnership with Petroci and Vitol. The third development phase of the project is expected to significantly boost production to approximately 150,000 barrels per day, while continuing to supply associated natural gas to the domestic power market.
Further drilling activity is also underway across the country’s offshore acreage. VAALCO Energy, in collaboration with partner CNR International, is preparing a new drilling campaign on Block CI-40 as part of a broader redevelopment and production optimisation programme. Murphy Oil is separately advancing exploration plans offshore Côte d’Ivoire, including a multi-well campaign targeting the Civette, Caracal, and Bubale prospects, while the country has also attracted renewed interest from Petrobras, which recently secured multiple offshore exploration blocks.
With major projects moving forward, new exploration entering the market, and financing frameworks taking shape, Côte d’Ivoire is increasingly positioning itself as one of Africa’s most compelling destinations for energy investment.
Source: World Oil Online