Sonatrach Begins Drilling Kafra Sud-Est 1 Oil Well in Niger

Algerian state company Sonatrach has officially commenced drilling operations for the Kafra Sud-Est 1 oil well in northern Niger. The operations began on Thursday, August 13, in the Kafra region, which is situated near the shared border between the two countries. The official launch ceremony was attended by Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Gherib and his Nigerien counterpart, Ali Mohamed Lamine Zeine.

This initiative represents a notable step in the strategic energy cooperation between Algeria and Niger. According to the Nigerien Ministry of Oil, the project signifies "a historic turning point for bilateral cooperation and Niger's oil sector." The ministry further stated that these operations reflect the commitment of both nations' leadership to invigorate the hydrocarbons sector.

The project builds upon a long-term framework, with Sonatrach having secured an exploration license for the Kafra area in 2005. The commencement of drilling strengthens the ties between Algeria and Niger, underscoring Algeria's role in regional energy development.