Algeria and Niger launch oil exploration in Kafra South
Algeria and Niger have officially launched drilling operations for the Kafra South-East 1 exploratory well, marking a significant milestone in their strategic energy partnership. The ceremony, held in the Kafra oil field in northern Niger, underscores the deepening ties between Algiers and Niamey in the hydrocarbon sector.
Kafra South oil project: a cornerstone of bilateral energy cooperation
The exploration well, located in the Kafra basin, represents a major step forward in the joint development of Niger’s oil potential. The event was co-chaired by Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb—representing President Abdelmadjid Tebboune—and Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine Mahaman, in the presence of high-ranking delegations from both nations.
Among the Algerian delegation were key figures such as:
- Mohamed Arkab, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy and Mines;
- Lounès Magramane, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;
- Noureddine Daoudi, CEO of Algeria’s national oil company Sonatrach;
- Saadi Ahmed, Algerian Ambassador to Niger.
From diplomatic agreements to concrete economic action
This initiative aligns with the commitments made by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and Niger’s transitional leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, during their bilateral discussions. Their shared vision aims to transform diplomatic goodwill into tangible economic and industrial collaboration, particularly in the energy sector.
Key insight: The launch of the Kafra drilling project signals a shift from political rapprochement to on-the-ground cooperation, with a focus on high-impact sectors such as oil and electricity.
Accelerating regional energy projects for shared growth
This oil exploration follows recent milestones, including the inauguration of the Niamey power plant, all stemming from the resolutions of the second session of the Algerian-Nigerien Joint High Commission held in Niamey in March 2026. By fast-tracking these initiatives, both countries aim to unlock new cross-border investment opportunities and foster sustainable economic development across the Sahel region.
