WINDHOEK, April 1 – Potentially recoverable oil resources at Namibia’s offshore Mopane field have increased sharply following recent appraisal drilling, with estimates rising by 57% to 1.38 billion barrels of oil equivalent (boe), according to shareholder Sintana Energy.
The revised figure marks a significant increase from the previous estimate of 875 million boe and reflects updated “3C” contingent resource volumes under the Petroleum Resources Management System, indicating higher-end recoverable potential if technical and commercial conditions are met.
Mopane, located within Petroleum Exploration Licence 83 (PEL 83), is operated by Galp, which holds an 80% stake in the block. While Galp declined to comment on the updated figures, Sintana said the new estimate reinforces the broader resource potential across the licence area.
The field is part of a wider wave of oil discoveries offshore Namibia, where exploration activity has intensified since 2022. Although the country has yet to begin hydrocarbon production, a series of large finds has positioned it as a potential new oil frontier.
Total resources at Mopane are estimated at more than 10 billion boe, though only a portion is currently classified as contingent. Sintana, which holds a 4.9% indirect interest in PEL 83, noted that further upside remains possible.
TotalEnergies is in the process of acquiring a 40% stake in the licence and is expected to take over operatorship ahead of a planned three-well drilling campaign scheduled for the second half of 2026.
The company has also identified additional prospects in the area, including Quiver and Sobreiro, which could further expand the resource base.
A final investment decision is targeted for 2028, with first oil production expected by 2032. Major players including TotalEnergies and Chevron already hold nearby offshore positions.
