Gambiaj.com – (Oslo, Norway) – PetroNor E\&P has reported steady second-quarter production while pushing forward with its expansion strategy across West and Central Africa, with a key focus on advancing exploration prospects in The Gambia.
The Norwegian-based oil and gas company confirmed that an ongoing infill drilling program is expected to boost production in the fourth quarter. Meanwhile, the company has maintained a robust cash position, giving it room to sustain both operational stability and regional growth.
One of the company’s most closely watched projects is the A4 license in The Gambia, situated in a proven hydrocarbon basin with prospects comparable to nearby producing fields. “We are chasing reservoirs that are analogous to the Sangomar field immediately to the north of us in Senegal,” said PetroNor CEO Jens Pace.
Pace noted that over the past 18 months, a technical work program has strengthened the case for hydrocarbons in A4 through seismic attribute analysis. However, while optimism remains high, he stressed that PetroNor is actively seeking partners before committing to a full drilling phase.
“We’re not sure that we would go into a drilling phase at 100%, but we are hopeful that there will be continued interest in joining us from others we are in discussion with,” Pace explained. He added that, under the terms of the current license, drilling will need to commence by November 2025.
At current production levels, PetroNor estimates proven and probable (2P) reserves of 17 million barrels, enough to sustain output for over a decade. The company has recently reinforced its regional footprint, having secured additional acreage in Congo and Nigeria earlier this year, signaling its intent to balance exploration risk with existing production.
Industry watchers say the A4 block could become a pivotal test case for The Gambia’s ambitions to attract more upstream investment, especially given the success of Senegal’s Sangomar project, operated by Woodside Energy.
With the clock ticking toward the November drilling deadline, PetroNor’s ability to secure a strategic partner will likely determine the pace of exploration in Gambian waters.
