Sala-2 well in Kenya’s Block 9 disappoints

Sala-2 appraisal well in Block 9 has failed to find any significant hydrocarbons updip from Sala-1 gas discovery according to the latest update from Africa Oil the operator and one of two partners at the block.

The Sala-2 well which commenced drilling in mid was designed to test the updip extent of this main reservoir sand with the well particularly focussing on gas tested at low rates at the lower interval of Sala-1.

“The partnership is also considering a down-dip appraisal location to test an on-lapping stratigraphic wedge on the flanks of the structure which is of the same age as the zones in the nearby Ndovu-1 well which had oil and gas shows,” Africa Oil said in a statement.

The latest update says there appears to be a stratigraphic or structural separation between the two wells.

Despite the disappointment Africa Oil however says the company plans to drill more appraisal wells in Block 9.

“The Company is reviewing additional potential appraisal targets as well as on trend prospects in the block which has proven oil and gas generation,” says Africa Oil CEO Keith Hill.

Africa Oil is Operator of Block 9 with a 50% working interest and Marathon Oil Kenya B.V. has the remaining 50% interest.