Tullow Oil Announces Oil Discovery at Kenya’s Emekuya well

Tullow Oil has announced that the Emekuya-1 well in Block 13T, Northern Kenya has encountered around 75 metres of net oil pay in two zones.

Emekuya-1 well drilled by the PR Marriott Rig-46 to a total measured depth of 1,356 metres is located 2.5 km north of Etom-2 and had the objective of drilling a fault block on the flank of the Greater Etom structure. According to the operator the well penetrated reservoir quality Miocene sandstones which correlate to those seen in the successful Etom-2 well.

Downhole pressure measurements and fluid samples suggest that the main oil reservoir is on the same static pressure gradient as the Etom-2 well which demonstrates that a major part of the Greater Etom structure is oil-filled. The reservoir sands encountered also appear to be extensive which further de-risks the northern play area and bodes well for future exploration in the region.

“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,” says Tullow Oil Exploration Director Angus McCoss.

“We are very pleased to continue our 100% success rate in the current program as we continue to build resources to enhance our ongoing development program. The four additional wells planned as well as the water flood pilot project will further allow us to better define the size and scope of the development,” commented Africa Oil CEO Keith Hill.

Following the conclusion of the Emekuya well the rig will be moved to drill an up-dip appraisal well on the Greater Etom structure.

Tullow operates Blocks 13T and 10BB with 50% equity and is partnered by Africa Oil Corporation and Maersk Oil both with 25%.