Galp’s Mopane Discovery
Another Major Find in Namibia’s Oil Frontier
In late November 2024, Galp, in partnership with NAMCOR and Custos Energy Ltd, made a significant oil and gas discovery at the Mopane-1A well in Block 2813A. This confirmation of light oil and gas-condensate is not just another addition to Namibia’s growing list of discoveries—it could be a game-changer for the country’s energy industry.
What is the Mopane-1A Discovery?
The Mopane-1A well is located in the Orange Basin, the same region where Shell and TotalEnergies have made major discoveries. Unlike previous wells, Mopane-1A found both light oil and gas-condensate in high-quality reservoirs, proving the commercial potential of the AVO-1 reservoir.
• High-Quality Reservoirs – The rock formations found in Mopane-1A are porous and permeable, allowing for efficient hydrocarbon extraction.
• Light Oil and Gas-Condensate – These are premium hydrocarbons that are easier to process and command higher market prices.
What This Means for Namibia’s Economy
The Mopane discovery could significantly boost Namibia’s GDP by:
• Attracting more foreign investment into the energy sector.
• Creating thousands of jobs in oilfield services, logistics, and downstream industries.
• Generating substantial government revenues through royalties and taxes.
Strategic Challenges and Opportunities
While the Mopane discovery presents enormous economic potential, it also poses strategic challenges:
• Infrastructure Requirements – Namibia needs to invest in export terminals, pipelines, and storage facilities.
• Balancing Oil and Environmental Sustainability – Developing Mopane responsibly will require strict environmental regulations.
• Geopolitical Dynamics – Namibia’s growing energy influence could shift regional power balances in Southern Africa.
A New Chapter for Namibia’s Energy Industry
With Mopane-1A, Namibia is solidifying its position as Africa’s most exciting new oil frontier. As appraisal drilling continues into 2025, the country has a unique opportunity to transform its economy—but success will require visionary leadership and strategic execution.
Key sources:
• The Namibian (Nov 2024) – “Galp Confirms Light Oil and Gas-Condensate in Mopane-1A Well”
• NAMCOR Press Release (Dec 2024) – “New Discovery in Block 2813A Boosts Namibia’s Oil Potential”
• African Energy Review (Dec 2024) – “Why Galp’s Mopane Discovery is a Game Changer for Namibia”
What Every Namibian Student and Entry-Level Professional Should Know About the Upstream Oil & Gas Sector
The upstream oil and gas industry in Namibia is no longer a theoretical possibility—it is a rapidl
Upstream Oil & Gas in Namibia: What You Need to Know to Enter the Field
Namibia is no longer just a blip on the oil and gas radar — Namibia is becoming one of Africa’s
Five Skills You Need as a Student Before Graduating
Empowering Namibia’s Youth for Tomorrow’s Economy Namibia faces a persistent challenge of high y
