Sonatrach Launches Kafra Sud-Est 1 Oil Drilling in Niger

The official launch of drilling operations for the Kafra Sud-Est 1 oil exploration well commenced in the Bilma department of Niger's Agadez region on August 13, 2026. This significant event involved high-level delegations from both Algeria and Niger, with Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb joining his Nigerien counterpart, Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine, at the Kafra site. The resumption of drilling underscores the strategic importance attributed to developing Kafra's petroleum potential and enhancing bilateral cooperation.

The ceremony, presided over by both Prime Ministers, included representatives from Algerian and Nigerien petroleum companies, Sonatrach and SONIDEP respectively. Their discussions reaffirmed a shared commitment to consolidating the strategic partnership and translating high-level pledges into concrete actions. The project is highlighted as an exemplary model for South-South cooperation, demonstrating a joint effort to valorize regional resources through collaborative initiatives.

Following the ceremony, the two Prime Ministers unveiled a plaque marking the official commencement of operations and toured the technical equipment installed at the site. This inspection confirmed the mobilization of extensive technical and logistical resources required for the exploration in the challenging Saharan environment. Beyond the economic prospects of the Kafra block, the mission also emphasized diplomatic consolidation and direct engagement with local communities to address their aspirations, integrating the project into a broader framework of regional development and sovereignty.