By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
Eni Ghana, in partnership with Vitol Upstream Ghana Ltd and the Ghana National Petroleum Corporation (GNPC), has launched a new drilling operation at the Sankofa East 1X Side Track 2 well, located within the Offshore Cape Three Points (OCTP) block. This latest initiative represents a significant step in the continued expansion of Ghana’s upstream oil and gas industry.
The drilling campaign is being executed with the Deep Value Driller, one of the most advanced drillships in the world, renowned for its cutting-edge automation technology, high safety standards, and operational efficiency. The rig’s deployment off Ghana’s coast follows a recent assignment in Côte d’Ivoire.
In a statement issued to the press, Eni Ghana emphasized that the activity reaffirms the partners’ commitment to maximizing the value of the OCTP block and securing sustainable, long-term energy production for the country.
“This activity reflects the partners’ ongoing commitment to unlocking additional value from the Offshore Cape Three Points (OCTP) block, ensuring long term production sustainability and contributing to Ghana’s energy security,” the statement said.
Prior to the commencement of drilling, Eni and its partners conducted an extensive stakeholder engagement programme across Ghana’s coastal communities. Over 800 individuals including fishermen, traditional leaders, and community members participated in sensitisation efforts organized in collaboration with several national agencies. These included the Environmental Protection Agency, Petroleum Commission, Ghana Maritime Authority, Ghana Navy, Fisheries Commission, and the Ghana National Canoe Fishermen Council.
The outreach programme was aimed at promoting transparency, fostering collaboration, and raising awareness about the drilling activities particularly with regard to environmental protection, marine safety, and the safeguarding of local livelihoods.
Eni, which has been operational in Ghana since 2009, currently produces around 34,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day. The company holds a 44.4% interest in the OCTP project, while Vitol holds 35.6% and GNPC retains a 20% stake.
