French independent oil and gas company Perenco has announced an oil discovery offshore the DRC.
The company claimed that it is the first exploration success in the region in almost three decades.
The discovery was made by Perenco's DRC subsidiary, Muanda International Oil Company (MIOC).
In 2024, MIOC has drilled two exploration wells using the Nuada self-elevated class 82 SD-C jack-up drilling rig.
The Moke-East well, situated between the Lukami and Motoba fields in the DRC coastal basin, revealed a 24ft net oil-bearing column.
Plans are under way to test and complete the well in the upcoming weeks.
Following this discovery, the Nuada rig has commenced drilling the first of 12 wells in the GCO field as part of MIOC's development drilling campaign offshore DRC, aimed at tapping into additional resources.
The operations are set to proceed concurrently with the CS02 Workover unit at the same site.
However, the second exploration well, LUKS-A, aimed at probing the southern extension of the Pinda formation, was deemed unviable due to insufficient hydrocarbon potential and has been plugged and abandoned.
Perenco DRC general manager Frédéric Kiepferle said: “Perenco’s offshore DRC subsidiary, MIOC, has had an active start to the year, which has included drilling the country’s first offshore exploration wells for almost 30 years. While testing continues, we are encouraged by the initial results of the Moke-East well.
“Following many months of preparatory work to ensure safe and successful operations, the Nuada has now moved onto the GCO field where it will be active for the next 12 months. As the DRC’s only international oil and gas producer, we are very pleased to further demonstrate our commitment, through this investment, to the discovery of new resources.”
Earlier this year, Perenco solidified its presence in the DRC by completing the acquisition of stakes in several non-core oil permits from Eni for $300m (£235.38m).
Additionally, TotalEnergies expanded its footprint in the region last month by acquiring an additional 10% interest in the Moho offshore field from Trident Energy.
