BW Energy has confirmed the signing of a contract for the mobilisation of the semi-submersible Deepsea Mira rig to drill the Kharas appraisal well on the Kudu licence (PPL003), located offshore in the Orange Basin, Namibia. This engagement is part of a platform-sharing agreement previously announced by Northern Ocean Ltd., operator of the Deepsea Mira, and Rhino Resources Ltd.
A multi-party agreement to optimise operations
The mobilisation of the Deepsea Mira is carried out via BW Kudu Ltd., a subsidiary of BW Energy, thus providing access to a rig already present in Namibia and a technical team experienced in the Orange Basin. The agreement also provides for a high level of local content to strengthen the integration of national skills into the project.
The Kharas appraisal well aims to clarify the production potential of the Kudu gas field. The campaign, scheduled for the second half of 2025, forms part of the ongoing acceleration of exploration and assessment of gas reserves in Namibia.
Shareholding structure and project organisation
BW Energy operates the Kudu production licence with a 95% stake, while NAMCOR E&P, a subsidiary of Namibia’s national oil company, holds the remaining 5% as a carried interest. The sharing agreement with Rhino Resources Ltd. enables maximum use of the Deepsea Mira and optimises logistical resources.
The collaboration between BW Energy, NAMCOR E&P, Northern Ocean Ltd. and Rhino Resources Ltd. aims to secure operations within controlled timelines while meeting technical standards of the offshore gas sector. The Kudu project is attracting attention for structuring new commercial partnerships around the country’s gas resources.
