en.Wedoany.com Reported - Côte d'Ivoire is accelerating its offshore oil and gas development, further solidifying its position as one of West Africa's fastest-growing upstream oil and gas markets. Key offshore projects are advancing, new drilling activities are scheduled, and efforts are underway to broaden project financing channels across the continent.

At a high-level meeting in Abidjan, the African Energy Chamber (AEC) and officials from Côte d'Ivoire's Ministry of Mines, Petroleum, and Energy reviewed ongoing upstream development projects and discussed strategies to attract more investment into the country's offshore sector.

Central to Côte d'Ivoire's growth prospects is the Baleine oilfield development project, operated by Eni in partnership with Petroci and Vitol. The third phase of development is expected to boost production to approximately 150,000 barrels per day, while continuing to supply associated natural gas to the domestic power market.

Officials also highlighted upcoming drilling activities in the country's offshore blocks. VAALCO Energy and its partner CNR International are preparing to launch new drilling operations in the CI-40 block as part of a broader redevelopment and production optimization plan.

Murphy Oil is also advancing its exploration program offshore Côte d'Ivoire, including a multi-well drilling campaign targeting the Civette, Caracal, and Bubale prospects. The country has also attracted new interest from international operators such as Petrobras, which recently acquired several offshore exploration blocks.

NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, stated that the upstream sector in Côte d'Ivoire is not showing incremental progress but a clear acceleration in momentum. With major projects advancing, new exploration entering the market, and financing frameworks taking shape, the country is positioning itself as one of Africa's most attractive energy investment destinations.

Discussions also covered progress on establishing the Africa Energy Bank, an initiative aimed at improving financing access for African energy projects. According to participants, efforts to operationalize the institution continue, with the goal of supporting public and private sector investments in oil and gas development across the continent.

In addition to upstream growth, stakeholders reviewed plans to expand refining capacity and enhance local participation in the energy value chain, including increased support for local service companies and workforce development programs.

The latest developments underscore Côte d'Ivoire's growing role as a regional hub for offshore exploration and production, as operators continue to advance new projects and expand activities in the country's offshore basins.

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