Azule Energy has announced a major gas discovery at the Gajajeira-01 exploration well in Block 1/14, located in the Lower Congo Basin, offshore Angola.
The well, spud on April 1, 2025, sits at a water depth of 95 metres and approximately 60 kilometres from the Angolan coast.
Drilled to target the Lower Oligocene interval, the Gajajeira-01 well encountered more than 30 metres of net pay in gas- and condensate-bearing formations, specifically within the LO100 target zone.
Initial results indicate robust reservoir mobility and point to substantial gas volumes in place — potentially exceeding one trillion cubic feet — alongside up to 100 million barrels of associated condensate.
Azule Energy’s CEO Adriano Mongini highlighted the project’s importance, stating: “This is a landmark moment for gas exploration in Angola.
“Gajajeira-01 is the country’s first dedicated gas exploration well, and its success reinforces our confidence in the potential of the Lower Congo Basin.
“We are proud to contribute to Angola’s long-term energy development with a focus on sustainability and energy security.”
The discovery confirms the existence of a working hydrocarbon system in the Lower Congo Basin and unlocks new exploration opportunities in the area.
Advanced formation evaluation and monitoring tools were utilised throughout the drilling process to ensure high safety standards.
Azule Energy — a 50/50 incorporated joint venture between BP and Eni — holds a 35 per cent stake in Block 1/14.
Partners include Equinor (30 per cent), Sonangol E&P (25 per cent), and Acrep (10 per cent).
The company is committed to carrying out comprehensive evaluations of the well’s potential and, in collaboration with its partners, will develop an optimal field development plan.
Following the success at LO100, drilling operations will proceed to test the Lower Oligocene interval LO300 as the campaign continues.
In support of ongoing field operations, Azule Energy engaged Aker Solutions in June 2024 under a long-term frame agreement for engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services on two FPSOs in Angola.
The three-year contract, with a possible two-year extension, is aimed at bolstering maintenance and modifications for these critical production units.
The landmark Gajajeira-01 find is expected to play a pivotal role in Angola’s energy landscape, enhancing energy security and catalysing further exploration and investment in the region.
