French energy giant TotalEnergies has secured a new exploration permit for the Nzombo area, located offshore in the Republic of Congo, the company confirmed on Monday. The development strengthens its footprint near the Moho production facilities, where it already operates.
Under the terms of the agreement, TotalEnergies will hold a 50% stake in the project, while QatarEnergy takes 35% and Congo’s national oil company, SNPC, controls the remaining share.
The permit covers a 1,000-square-kilometre block situated about 100 kilometres off Pointe Noire, a key oil hub in the Central African nation.
According to Kevin McLachlan, Senior Vice-President for Exploration at TotalEnergies, the Nzombo block represents part of a portfolio of “high-impact prospects” for the company’s long-term energy strategy.
The initial work plan includes the drilling of one exploration well, which is expected to commence before the end of 2025.
TotalEnergies currently produces around 65,000 barrels of oil per day in Congo, largely from offshore operations.
SNPC also maintains a 15% interest in the Moho facilities, highlighting its continued involvement in major oil ventures with international partners.
The new exploration rights are expected to boost Congo’s oil production outlook and further position TotalEnergies as a key player in the country’s energy sector.
Officials noted that the permit could open new investment opportunities while strengthening energy security and revenues for the Republic of Congo.
With drilling preparations underway, stakeholders anticipate the Nzombo project could deliver significant contributions to the region’s oil output in the coming years.