VAALCO Energy Finishes Phase 3 Drilling in Gabon
The company successfully completed its offshore drilling program and is now launching a new campaign in Côte d'Ivoire.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Oil and Gas
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VAALCO Energy has concluded its Phase 3 offshore drilling program in Gabon, highlighted by the successful ETSEM-3H well in the SE Etame field. The firm is simultaneously shifting focus to the Baobab Phase 5 campaign offshore Côte d'Ivoire to drive future growth.
Why it matters
These drilling activities are central to the company strategy of increasing production levels, expanding reserves, and generating long-term value for its shareholders. The move marks a transition between major regional projects as the company scales its African operations.
The ETSEM-3H well achieved a gross initial production rate of 2,000 barrels of oil per day, tapping into 300 metres of net pay in Gamba reservoir sands. The upcoming Baobab campaign encompasses four production wells, three water-injection wells, and two workovers.
The players
VAALCO Energy
This independent energy company focuses on exploration, development, and production within West Africa.
The details
The ETSEM-3H well was completed in an attic location, while the Borr Norve rig has been demobilized from the SE Etame platform. Meanwhile, work has commenced at the Baobab field, which restarted operations during the second quarter of 2026, by batch-setting the top-hole sections for new wells.
Timeline
The Baobab field restarted during the second quarter of 2026.
The Phase 3 drilling program concluded in October 2026.
The first new producer from the Baobab campaign is expected online in late 2026.
The company anticipates production growth throughout 2027.
Market Landscape
VAALCO Energy is leveraging its existing footprint in West Africa to maintain production momentum following the conclusion of its Gabon-based program. This capital allocation strategy shifts resources toward Côte d'Ivoire to solidify the company's competitive standing in the regional market.
Shareholders may look toward upcoming production reports as the company attempts to translate these drilling campaigns into tangible output growth. The shift in activity suggests a focus on project pipeline management that aims to sustain the company's operational throughput through 2027.
The takeaway
Energy producers often rotate heavy equipment and capital between different regional assets to optimize reserve recovery. Tracking these site-specific transitions helps investors understand how a firm plans to manage its production curve over multi-year cycles.
Further reading
For broader trends in regional energy exploration, visit the Oil and Gas section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Oilreviewafrica.
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