Sierra Leone has signed an agreement with Shell that allows the company to carry out advanced geological and geophysical surveys across several offshore blocks, according to the country’s petroleum directorate.
The reconnaissance permit covers about 20,600 square kilometers and includes basin modeling and petroleum systems analysis, the statement said.
The program follows a similar agreement signed with Eni last October and is expected to improve understanding of Sierra Leone’s deepwater hydrocarbon potential.
The Petroleum Directorate of Sierra Leone said the permit will create a data-based framework for technical evaluation and possible future participation in licensing rounds.
“Our strategy focuses on reducing basin risk through quality data, attracting credible global companies and speeding up the move toward exploration drilling,” said Foday Mansaray.
Shell said it regularly signs non-binding agreements with governments to access data and review possible opportunities. The company added that the agreement does not represent a commitment to proceed, and any future steps would depend on regulatory approvals and due diligence.
source:www.cnbcafrica.com
African Energy Council