Murphy Oil Unveils Major Oil Discovery in Côte d’Ivoire’s Offshore Block CI-709 BODY: Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire – June 22, 2026 – Murphy Oil Corporation has made a significant discovery of substantial oil reserves at the Bubale-1X exploration well, situated in Block CI-709, some 40 miles offshore Côte d’Ivoire. This discovery marks a crucial milestone in the nation’s quest to emerge as a leading hydrocarbon producer in Africa by 2035.
The Bubale — 1X well, reaching a depth of 20,548 feet (6,263 meters) in water depths of 7,795 feet (2,376 meters), yielded 100 feet (30 meters) of net oil pay across two reservoirs, with initial assessments pointing to high-quality light crude. This discovery comes on the heels of a series of major offshore finds that are redefining Côte d’Ivoire’s energy landscape.
The nation’s energy sector has been experiencing a renaissance, propelled by the government’s strategic aim to diversify the economy beyond its reliance on cocoa and coffee. Murphy Oil’s exploration campaign in Côte d’Ivoire has been marked by both challenges and successes.
The company’s perseverance was rewarded with the Bubale-1X discovery, underscoring its commitment to the region and its potential as an emerging energy powerhouse.
The Bubale — 1X discovery is strategically significant, aligning with Côte d’Ivoire’s goal to achieve a crude output of 500,000 barrels per day and natural gas production of over 1 billion cubic feet per day by 2035, as outlined in the country’s Ivory Coast 2035 Ambition plan. This discovery also holds a Pan-African perspective, symbolizing a step towards greater regional integration and energy security.
As more African countries tap into their hydrocarbon resources, the continent’s geopolitical dynamics and economic ties are poised to change, offering new opportunities for investment and collaboration.
As Côte d’Ivoire progresses with the development of its newfound oil reserves, the world watches closely.
The success of this endeavor could serve as a model for other African countries seeking to unlock their energy potential and transform their economies.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africa.businessinsider
Source: Ayodeji Adegboyega
