Tullow encounters oil in Emekuya-1 well in Kenya

UK-headquartered oil and gas exploration firm Tullow Oil has encountered around 75m of net oil pay in two zones in the Emekuya-1 well in Block 13T, Northern Kenya.

Located 2.5km north of Etom-2 well and drilled to a total measured depth of 1,356m, the Emekuya-1 well hit reservoirs of quality Miocene sandstones, which correlate to those seen in the Etom-2 well.

According to the company, the results indicated that a major part of the Greater Etom structure is oil-filled.

It also noted that the reservoir sands encountered are extensive, which further de-risks the northern play area and augurs well for future exploration in the region.

Tullow Oil exploration director Angus McCoss said: “The Emekuya-1 exploratory appraisal well has made an important discovery in the northern part of the South Lokichar Basin.

“This well has proven oil charge across a significant part of the Greater Etom structure and we are very encouraged by the quality and particularly the regional extent of the reservoir.

“We now look forward to the remainder of the Kenya exploration and appraisal campaign in support of the ongoing work to prepare this important asset for full field development.”

The company will now move the rig to drill an up-dip appraisal well on the Greater Etom structure.

Tullow owns 50% equity in Blocks 13T and 10BB, with Africa Oil Corporation and Maersk Oil both having 25% interest.

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Image: The well-penetrated, reservoir quality Miocene sandstones similar to those seen in the Etom-2 well. Photo: courtesy of Tullow Oil.