ReconAfrica targets July results from Namibia oil well test at Kavango West

Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. (ReconAfrica), the Vancouver-based oil and gas company working collaboratively with national governments to explore the potential for oil and gas resources in Northeast Namibia, is moving closer to key production test results at its Kavango West 1X oil well in Namibia, with preliminary outcomes expected by mid-to-late July.

The Vancouver-based oil and gas exploration company is conducting what is expected to be Namibia’s first large-scale onshore production test, in partnership with NAMCOR and BW Energy. The test targets multiple hydrocarbon-bearing zones across a 420-meter interval in the Kavango Basin.

Global oilfield service providers SLB and Halliburton are overseeing technical operations as ReconAfrica advances toward a critical phase in its exploration program.

Testing operations progress in Kavango West

Operations at the Kavango West 1X site are advancing steadily, with production testing scheduled to begin before the end of May. Each testing phase is expected to run for up to 10 days, with the full campaign lasting approximately 60 days.

Before testing begins, the company will complete a cement bond log to verify casing integrity, alongside final regulatory approvals for transport and storage.

Equipment sourced from both Namibian and international suppliers has already been delivered to the site as preparations intensify.

Key data expected from production test

The upcoming test is designed to evaluate reservoir quality, hydrocarbon flow rates, and commercial viability. These results will play a major role in determining future appraisal drilling decisions in the Kavango Basin.

ReconAfrica continues to evaluate additional drilling locations across its 13 million-acre exploration portfolio spanning Namibia, Angola, and Botswana.

Namibia’s oil sector gains momentum

Namibia has emerged as one of Africa’s most closely watched frontier oil markets following offshore discoveries by global energy companies including TotalEnergies, Shell, and Galp Energia.

While offshore discoveries have dominated headlines, onshore exploration in the Kavango Basin is increasingly drawing investor attention due to its potential scale and early-stage data signals.

A successful test could strengthen Namibia’s position as a rising energy hub in southern Africa and attract increased foreign investment into upstream exploration.

Next phase of exploration

ReconAfrica’s dual-track strategy across Namibia and Gabon highlights its ambition to build a diversified African energy platform.

Beyond the current test, ReconAfrica is advancing appraisal drilling plans and permitting for additional wells. The company says it remains committed to environmental compliance and international best practices as it expands operations.

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ReconAfrica begins Namibia oil testing, advances Gabon exploration drive