Sahara Group has announced plans to expand its upstream capacity, aiming to produce 350,000 barrels of oil per day within the next five years. According to Leste Aihevba, Chief Technical Officer at Asharami Energy, a Sahara Group upstream company, this growth will be driven by the development of exploration and production service offerings, execution capacity, and the acquisition of seven new rigs.
The acquisition of these rigs is a strategic move to accelerate production and enhance local content participation in Africa’s energy sector. Aihevba emphasized the importance of local collaboration and regional cooperation in positioning Africa as a global energy leader. He noted that every energy project, including refinery upgrades and gas commercialization, must be part of a broader continental blueprint to ensure a secure and sustainable energy future for Africa.
Sahara Group’s massive infrastructure drive is transforming its operations, boosting capacity, and enhancing global competitiveness in Africa’s energy sector. The company has invested in infrastructure to unlock Africa’s resources across its upstream, midstream, power, and infrastructure businesses, covering the full value chain. The acquisition of the seven rigs will complement efforts to accelerate the pace from exploration to production, enhance local content participation, and ensure Africa efficiently develops its reserves.
Two of the new rigs are already in Nigeria, with another two expected to arrive before the end of the year. The rigs will be managed by Arahas Global Oilfield Services, a Sahara Group company. Aihevba highlighted that these investments are already yielding results, with one of the rigs commencing operations and another being mobilized to the site.
The expansion of Sahara Group’s upstream capacity is expected to contribute to Africa’s growing efforts towards accelerating its energy transition. By investing in infrastructure, developing exceptional human capital, and fostering cross-border partnerships, the company is making marked contributions to the continent’s energy sector. The successful deployment of the new rigs will be a significant step towards achieving Sahara Group’s production targets and reinforcing its position as a major player in Africa’s energy industry.
