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Reconnaissance Energy Africa has confirmed that drilling has officially commenced at its Kavango West 1X exploration well in Namibia. The company spudded the well on July 31 and expects to reach a total depth of approximately 3,800 metres by the end of November 2025.
The well targets over 1,500 metres of Otavi carbonate reservoir, a key zone within the Damara Fold Belt play. This structure was identified on modern 2D seismic and extends across a sizeable area roughly 22 kilometres long and 3 kilometres wide. ReconAfrica has already mapped over 19 prospects and four leads in the Damara Fold Belt, which spans both Namibia and, more recently, into Angola where the company has secured an additional 5 million acres through a memorandum of understanding.
Brian Reinsborough, President and CEO of ReconAfrica, said the decision to shift drilling to the Kavango West 1X location was driven by insights gained from their previous well, Naingopo. Although this change led to a slightly longer preparation period, Reinsborough emphasized that careful technical evaluation is key to maximizing the chances of success. He described this well as their best opportunity to unlock the commercial potential of the Damara Fold Belt, and shared excitement for what it could mean for the company, its partners, Namibian stakeholders and shareholders alike.
Senior Vice President of Exploration Chris Sembritzky added that learnings from Naingopo were instrumental in shaping the strategy for Kavango West 1X. He pointed to the strong seismic data, clear hydrocarbon migration pathway and well-defined closure as compelling factors. With a seasoned drilling team and equipment tailored specifically for the geology, Sembritzky expressed confidence in the well’s potential to be efficient, safe and successful. Results are expected by the end of 2025.
