Signaling a rise in offshore drilling activity in Africa, Houston-based VAALCO Energy has signed a contract with UK-based Borr Drilling to provide a jack-up rig for its 2025/2026 drilling program off the coast of Gabon. This partnership underscores the growing trend of international collaboration in Africa’s energy sector, a critical step toward unlocking the continent’s vast offshore potential. As the energy landscape continues to evolve, the Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum, scheduled to take place in Paris next May, will serve as a pivotal platform for fostering such partnerships, driving investment and shaping Africa’s energy future.

Africa’s offshore oil and gas industry is experiencing a resurgence, fueled by increased exploration activity. Notable developments include VAALCO’s offshore drilling program in Gabon, Galp’s appraisal wells in Namibia’s deepwater Orange Basin, Shell’s planned exploration in South Africa’s portion of the basin, Africa Oil Corp.’s upcoming drilling campaign in the deepwater Agbami field offshore Nigeria, among many others.

As Africa’s oil and gas industry continues to expand, partnerships with global energy players are critical in overcoming the region’s infrastructure, financial and technical challenges. VAALCO’s contract with Borr Drilling is a testament to the power of cross-border collaborations, where international companies bring the technical expertise, capital and advanced technology necessary for successful offshore projects. Such partnerships are essential in helping African nations maximize the value of their offshore reserves, while ensuring the sector remains competitive on the global stage.

For countries like Gabon, whose offshore potential remains largely untapped, collaboration with global firms can help unlock resources and build a more resilient energy sector. By securing financing and deploying cutting-edge technology, these partnerships allow Africa to build infrastructure and increase its production capacity, driving economic growth and boosting investor confidence. As seen with the VAALCO-Borr contract, international firms are increasingly recognizing Africa’s oil and gas potential and are eager to contribute to its growth.

As the continent strives to increase its offshore energy production, IAE 2025 will foster vital discussions on how to secure financing, navigate geopolitical risks and address environmental concerns, all while ensuring that Africa’s energy growth remains sustainable and equitable. The forum’s focus on building partnerships, signing deals and encouraging cross-border collaboration aligns with the success of recent contract awards such as VAALCO-Borr, setting the stage for future offshore projects across the continent.

IAE 2025 is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.invest-africa-energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.