ExxonMobil made headlines at the Angola Oil & Gas 2024 conference with its successful exploration and redevelopment activities in Angola’s offshore Block 15 and its promising drilling endeavors in the Namibe Basin. During an on-stage interview, Katrina Fisher, Managing Director of ExxonMobil Angola, provided insights into the company’s progress, emphasizing collaboration, production growth, and the prioritization of local content and gender diversity.
Fisher highlighted the importance of partnerships in driving ExxonMobil’s exploration success in Angola. “We undertook an 18-well program with our partners—Azule Energy, Equinor, and Sonangol. Strong collaboration led to that program, and we’ve made significant discoveries, including Bavuca South-1 and Likembe-01. We are also drilling a frontier well in the Namibe Basin,” Fisher shared. The discoveries represent major milestones in Angola’s energy sector, with further potential to unlock the country’s vast hydrocarbon resources.
This frontier exploration in the Namibe Basin is particularly significant as it represents ExxonMobil’s commitment to exploring new areas in Angola’s oil-rich landscape. The Namibe Basin, still relatively untapped, offers exciting prospects for further oil and gas discoveries, positioning Angola as a key player in global energy markets. Fisher’s announcement underscores ExxonMobil’s determination to drive exploration activities that can boost Angola’s energy output, attract foreign investment, and contribute to national economic growth.
ExxonMobil’s efforts in offshore Block 15, one of Angola’s most prolific oil fields, are equally commendable. According to Fisher, production in Block 15 has increased by an impressive 30%, with ExxonMobil producing a cumulative 2.6 billion barrels of oil from this block alone. This boost in production reflects the success of the company’s redevelopment program, which leverages cutting-edge technology and innovation to maximize the potential of mature fields and extend their lifespan.
Beyond its operational achievements, ExxonMobil has also placed a significant focus on local content and workforce development, which is a critical priority for Angola’s government. Fisher pointed out that out of ExxonMobil’s 500 employees in the country, 90% are Angolan, highlighting the company’s commitment to nurturing local talent. Notably, 70% of the company’s leadership team in Angola is also Angolan, further demonstrating ExxonMobil’s dedication to building a strong, locally-driven workforce that can sustain Angola’s oil industry for years to come.
Gender diversity and inclusion were also central to the discussion. Fisher emphasized that 25% of ExxonMobil’s workforce in Angola consists of women, exceeding the industry average. This achievement aligns with Angola’s broader efforts to promote gender equality in the workforce, particularly in traditionally male-dominated sectors like oil and gas. ExxonMobil’s focus on creating a more inclusive environment for women in the industry is notable, as it provides a roadmap for other companies to follow.
“Our focus is on putting a framework in place for mentoring and advocacy, as well as policies that support women throughout their careers,” Fisher explained. “We’re providing roadmaps, role models, and support systems to help women succeed in the energy industry.” This approach is designed not only to attract women to the sector but also to empower them to rise through the ranks and take on leadership roles.
ExxonMobil’s commitment to gender diversity reflects a growing recognition of the importance of creating a more equitable workforce, one where all employees—regardless of gender—are given the tools and opportunities to thrive. By providing mentoring and advocacy programs, the company is helping to build a more inclusive industry, where women can access the same opportunities for advancement and success as their male counterparts.
In conclusion, ExxonMobil’s efforts in Angola’s Namibe Basin and Block 15 represent a significant step forward for the country’s oil and gas industry. The company’s commitment to local content, workforce development, and gender diversity further demonstrates its dedication to not only maximizing Angola’s energy potential but also ensuring that the benefits of oil production are shared equitably among its people. As ExxonMobil continues to explore new frontiers, its focus on collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity sets an example for the wider industry, positioning Angola as a leading player in the global energy landscape.
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