As of 20 September 2019, Societe Nationale des Petroles du Congo (SNPC) is still understood to be looking for a partner in the in its Lower Congo Basin Le Mayombe permit. According to sources up to 49% is available but not operatorship. Local sources suggest that SNPC is awaiting a new exploration lease for the Le Mayombe block which they hope to include the Nanga III block (which formed part of the Licensing Round phase II 2018-2019). Â Â   In April 2017, SNPC was discussing with a south African company (Niari Company) regarding a partnership in the permit.  The licence covers some 2,050 sq km (2,500 sq km with the addition of Nanga III) on the eastern flank of the Lower Congo Basin.   CNPC acquired 189 km of 2D seismic data between 5 May and 24 October 2012. The data was processed between 8 February and 1 August 2013.   Commitments relating to the first exploration period included the acquisition, processing and interpretation of 600km of 2D seismic data and/or 300 sq km of 3D seismic data and the drilling of two wells, one being optional (the seismic component is understood to have been partially completed). USD100,000 was to be dedicated to social projects and USD 200,000 to studies relevant to the hydrocarbon potential of the Zaire Basin. Each of the subsequent two three-year periods calls for drilling of two wells, one being optional, and for USD 100,000 for social projects.   Decree 2006-426 for Le Mayombe exploitation permit was issued on 31 July 2006. The application was filed on 12 May 2006.  Contact details:   Groupe SNPC   B.P. 188 Brazzaville  Tel: + 242 810964  Fax: +242 810492  Email: bernard.okiorina@snpc-group.com  Background information  Except for the 189 km of 2D seismic survey acquired within the Le Mayombe, very little exploration has been conducted. The Nanga III block flanks five oil discoveries four of which are very small but the MâBoundi field in production since 2002 (currently operated by Eni) is a 300 MMbo field and is located towards the north western portion of the Nanga III block. Its worth noting that several wells were drilled within the Nanga III block aimed at Oil sand exploration.
Congo, Le Mayombe