Noble Helium Ltd. has contracted BoreXpert’s Schramm T130 XD rig for its upcoming Kinambo drilling campaign, marking another step towards unlocking its North Rukwa project in Tanzania.
The North Rukwa project, situated on the western margin of the Rukwa Basin, is scheduled to see the rig mobilise to site in June.
The first exploration well is expected to spud in early July, marking the start of a highly anticipated 2+2 program, comprising two confirmed wells with an option for two further contingent wells depending on initial results.
The campaign will target two primary locations, Kinambo B and Kinambo K. Kinambo B will focus on shallow gas accumulations at roughly 430 metres, while Kinambo K will test both shallow and deep targets to a depth of 1,500 metres.
These wells will undergo rigorous gas analysis and logging to validate the western margin play.
Executive Chairman Dennis Donald said: “The Rukwa Basin is one of the most prospective helium provinces on earth.
“With the world currently awake and sensitised to the severe shortage of helium and the critical role it plays in the development of AI and many other critical technologies; we are excited to undertake this potentially game-changing exploration campaign.”
Noble Helium expects drilling costs to be significantly lower than its maiden campaign at Mbelele.
By leveraging increased knowledge of the local subsurface conditions and moving away from high-cost oil and gas rigs, the company has optimised its configuration for the Schramm T130 XD to ensure operational efficiency and safety within a controlled budget.
Preparation is already well advanced, with long-lead items on schedule and site inspections imminent.
Following the first two wells, a technical break will allow for laboratory verification of results before deciding whether to move to additional exploration sites or an appraisal well at Mbelele 1A, located 35 kilometres to the north-west.
