FREETOWN, April 22 – Sierra Leone has signed an agreement with Shell to conduct advanced geological and geophysical surveys across several offshore blocks, marking a key step in developing its energy sector.
The reconnaissance permit covers approximately 20,600 square kilometres and will include basin modelling and petroleum systems analysis, according to the Petroleum Directorate of Sierra Leone.
The initiative is aimed at improving understanding of the country’s deepwater hydrocarbon potential and creating a strong data foundation for future exploration activities. It follows a similar agreement signed with Eni in October, reflecting growing interest from major international energy firms.
Officials say the programme is designed to reduce exploration risks and make Sierra Leone’s offshore sector more attractive to investors.
“Our strategy is deliberately focused on de-risking the basin through high-quality data, attracting credible global players and accelerating the pathway towards exploration drilling,” said Foday Mansaray.
The data gathered will support technical evaluations and could pave the way for future licensing rounds, positioning Sierra Leone as an emerging frontier in offshore oil and gas exploration.
The move underscores the country’s ambition to leverage its untapped resources to drive economic growth while strengthening its appeal to global energy investors.
