ReconAfrica readies Kavango West for flow testing

ReconAfrica and its partners NAMCOR and BW Energy are preparing to begin downhole production testing at the Kavango West 1X well in Namibia, with testing expected to commence before the end of May 2026 and results anticipated by mid-to-late July.

The consortium, which struck hydrocarbons at the well in late 2025, is conducting a cement bond log, a standard pre-testing procedure to verify the integrity of the well casing and cement, before moving to perforating and production testing. A third-party service provider is in the process of securing a final transport and storage permit required to begin operations.

Equipment and services for the test have been procured from both Namibian and international companies, with oilfield services firms SLB and Halliburton engaged to carry out technical operations on site. The company described the planned test as the first of its kind in Namibia.

Testing will cover six optimised zones across 420 metres of hydrocarbon-bearing intervals. A single zone can take up to 10 days to test, placing the total production test programme at up to 60 days.

ReconAfrica is the operator of the well with a 70% working interest. BW Energy holds a 20% interest, and the National Petroleum Corporation of Namibia, NAMCOR, holds a 10% carried-free working interest.

The Kavango West 1X well encountered approximately 400 metres of gross hydrocarbon section in the Otavi carbonate section when drilling was completed in November 2025. Wireline logs confirmed 64 net metres of hydrocarbon pay, with an additional 61 metres of hydrocarbon shows identified in deeper sections where interpreted natural fractures in the limestone reservoir are expected to enhance deliverability.

The company said it remains committed to conducting all work in full alignment with Namibia's laws, regulations and permitting requirements.

Alongside the production test programme, ReconAfrica said preparations for an appraisal well are advancing, with site selection and permitting work under way on the Kavango discovery.