ReconAfrica drills Kavango West 1X well to 4,158 m

Executive Summary

• ReconAfrica provided an operational update on the Kavango West 1X exploration well in Namibia, confirming the well has been drilled safely and efficiently to a depth of 4,158 meters, exceeding the original target of 3,800 meters.
• The company reported the presence of hydrocarbons, including numerous oil and gas shows and strong natural gas markers in the Otavi reservoir package, prompting an extension of the well depth to approximately 4,200 meters.
• Drilling is currently paused due to a drive shaft failure, with repairs expected to be completed next week; the company plans to conduct extensive wireline logging and fluid sampling to verify results, with final results expected prior to year-end.

Key Details

• Well Status: Kavango West 1X exploration well in Namibia.
• Current Depth: 4,158 meters (reached on Friday, Nov. 7).
• Original Target Depth: 3,800 meters (spudded July 31).
• Depth Extension: Approved to drill to approximately 4,200 meters due to encouraging hydrocarbon presence.
• Operational Issue: Drilling delayed at current depth due to a drive shaft failure.
• Repair Status: Equipment sourced and shipping; repair work expected to be completed next week.
• Next Steps: Plan to drill ahead, then conduct extensive wireline logging, core sampling, and fluid sampling within the Otavi formation.
• Results Timeline: Company plans to disclose results after thorough evaluation, expected prior to year-end.
• Geological Findings: Presence of hydrocarbons through numerous oil and gas shows; strong and consistent natural gas markers on mud logs throughout the Otavi reservoir package.
• Verification Plan: All hydrocarbon shows require verification via wireline logging and fluid sampling.

Notable Quotes

• "I want to thank everyone who is working on the Kavango West 1X exploration well. The well has been drilling safely and efficiently. The company is encouraged with the drilling results to date, which show the presence of hydrocarbons through numerous oil and gas shows, as well as strong and consistent natural gas markers on mud logs throughout the Otavi reservoir package." — Brian Reinsborough, President and CEO