Algerian Radio
The Sonatrach group plans to begin well-drilling operations at the Kafra field in Niger starting in early April, following the completion of several studies, the Director of International Cooperation at the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Mines, Hakim Zebiri, announced on Tuesday in Niamey.
This statement was made to APS on the sidelines of the proceedings of the 2nd session of the Algerian-Nigerien High Joint Commission for Cooperation, held in the Nigerien capital on March 23 and 24. The session was co-chaired by Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb and his Nigerien counterpart, Mr. Ali Lamine Zeine Mahaman, with the participation of a large ministerial delegation comprising several government members and senior officials.
Mr. Zebiri explained that the actual launch of the drilling operations will begin in the coming days, as soon as the necessary equipment and supplies arrive. He highlighted that this operation represents a significant concrete step towards the development of energy resources in Niger.
The official also emphasized the excellent level of cooperation between the two countries in the hydrocarbons sector, which is currently experiencing a positive dynamic. He affirmed the strong political will of the leaders of both countries to strengthen the strategic partnership and expand the areas of energy cooperation.
He welcomed the Nigerien proposal to open new cooperation prospects by granting additional exploration blocks, a move that testifies to the great trust placed in Algerian expertise, notably through the Sonatrach Group.
It was also agreed to strengthen training programs for Nigerien professionals in various hydrocarbon-related specialties and to support Niger in setting up a specialized laboratory for analyzing oil samples, thereby contributing to the development of its technical and scientific capabilities.
