Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. announced it has completed drilling operations at the Kavango West 1X well on Petroleum Exploration Licence 73, located onshore Namibia. The well reached a total depth of 4,200 metres and revealed 64 metres of net hydrocarbons, based on results obtained from wireline logging.
Wireline data indicated approximately 85 metres of reservoir section within a gross interval of 400 metres, containing multiple limestone reservoir units. Mud and gas anomalies were observed, and collected samples will be sent to the United States for laboratory analysis. No core samples were taken from this well.
A production test scheduled for early 2026
A production test is planned for the first quarter of 2026 to determine deliverability characteristics of the identified reservoir intervals. The test will use Tubing-Conveyed Perforating (TCP) to selectively target the 64 metres of hydrocarbon pay identified by logs and an additional 61 metres of oil and gas shows in deeper sections, where interpreted natural fractures in limestone formations may enhance hydrocarbon flow.
The Kavango West 1X well was temporarily abandoned at the end of November pending arrival of necessary testing equipment. According to the operator, the testing programme is expected to last about one month and will assess production potential from the Otavi carbonate reservoir.
Strategic relevance for the Damara Fold Belt
Reconnaissance Energy Africa holds a 70% working interest in the licence, which it operates in partnership with BW Energy (20%) and the state-owned Namibia National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia (NAMCOR), which holds a 10% carried interest. The entire licence covers over six million prospective acres.
The results from Kavango West 1X are seen as a milestone in assessing the hydrocarbon potential of the Damara Fold Belt. The company stated that acquired data supports a success case evaluation, paving the way for further testing or additional drilling in the area.
