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August 16, 2025 | 3 weeks ago

Sonatrach marks its return to Libya

After a decade-long absence, Sonatrach has confirmed its return to Libya with the discovery of a commercial deposit in the Ghadames Basin. This revival comes amid growing energy cooperation between Algiers and Tripoli.

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The catalyst for this comeback is the recent discovery of this deposit in the Ghadames Basin, according to an announcement by the National Oil Corporation (NOC), Libya's national oil company. The A-65/2 well, operated in partnership with Sonatrach, has an estimated production of 4,200 barrels of crude oil per day. The NOC specified that this operation is part of an integrated drilling program, mobilizing platform No. 11 for the opening of three strategic wells, in collaboration with local and international companies. This deposit has been classified as "commercial," paving the way for rapid development and production in the coming months.

Signing of new technical partnerships

In parallel with this discovery, Sonatrach signed four memoranda of understanding with Libyan companies in various areas of the oil sector on July 24, 2025. These agreements cover geophysics, well services, laboratory analysis, and training. The stated objective is to strengthen technical cooperation and facilitate the transfer of skills between the two countries. These concrete initiatives reflect Sonatrach's commitment to consolidate its presence in the Libyan market and develop lasting relationships with local players in the sector. 

Beyond Libya, Sonatrach is also continuing its expansion in sub-Saharan Africa. The company is active in Mali and Niger. This relaunch is part of a broader regional consolidation strategy aimed at establishing Sonatrach's position as a key player in the West African energy sector.

Targeted investments and regional cooperation


As part of this initiative, Sonatrach has announced a $442 million investment in energy projects in sub-Saharan Africa and Libya by 2028. These funds will be allocated to exploration, production, and the development of energy infrastructure in the countries where the company operates. Partnerships have also been formed with other African oil companies, such as in the Republic of Congo, to develop hydrocarbon exploration and production projects together. This strategy of cooperation and investment reflects an approach aimed at diversifying revenue sources while supporting regional energy development.

Sonatrach remains a major player on the international stage. With 154 subsidiaries covering the entire hydrocarbon value chain, it is the largest company in Africa and one of the world's most influential in the energy sector. Its expansion policy, focused on Africa and the Middle East, aims to consolidate its regional position while diversifying its activities globally.

A strategy tailored to regional realities

Sonatrach's return to Libya and the strengthening of its presence in sub-Saharan Africa illustrate its ability to adapt its strategy to local geopolitical and economic realities. The company is focusing on developing strong partnerships, transferring skills, and rigorously managing its projects to establish its competitiveness.

However, the success of these initiatives remains dependent on political and security stability in the areas of activity. In Libya, as in other African countries, security and institutional fragilities persist, forcing Sonatrach to rigorously manage its partnerships and investments to ensure their profitability and sustainability.

By consolidating its position in Libya and sub-Saharan Africa, Sonatrach confirms its commitment to becoming a key player in the continent's energy sector. The combination of targeted investments, strong partnerships, and recognized technical expertise forms the foundation of this ambition, in a global context where competitiveness and diversification of activities are essential factors for ensuring sustainable development.

August 17, 2025 | algeria-logo