A Focus on Reprocessing

Led by the National Oil, Gas & Biofuels Agency (ANPG), Angola has focused on reprocessing existing seismic data to ensure updated geological insights. In early 2025, energy data and analysis company TGS completed the reprocessing of the Block 16 GeoStreamer MC3D seismic dataset in Angola's Lower Congo Basin. Covering 3,684 km², the dataset uses modern depth processing workflows to enhance imaging beyond the original data, allowing for the detailed evaluation of deeper targets. This reprocessing also improves understanding of the Tchihumba field, a marginal field now open for development.

At the 2024 Angola Oil & Gas (AOG) conference, TGS announced its reprocessing of the onshore Kwanza Basin dataset, which offers improved frequency content, imaging and velocity modeling. The Kwanza Basin, home to proven petroleum systems, holds significant exploration potential, particularly given the continuation of well-established offshore systems. Additionally, WesternGeco completed a depth reimaging project in 2020 consisting of 7,922 km² of 3D surveys in the Lower Congo Basin, covering Blocks 46, 47 and 48. The reprocessed data significantly enhanced imaging of pre-salt sediments and the interpretation of the area’s basement architecture.

A Rich Seismic Data Library

As one of Africa’s largest oil and gas producers, Angola already offers a rich library of seismic data. WesternGeco provides data covering the three main offshore basins, while Viridien Group offers extensive seismic coverage, including 7,215 km² of 3D coverage for the Kwanza Basin and 4,380 km² of reprocessed 3D data for Block 33 in the Lower Congo Basin. TGS contributes with 2D seismic data covering 2,589 km² in the onshore Kwanza Basin and 16,000 km² of 3D seismic data, primarily over Blocks 35, 36 and 37 in the offshore Kwanza Basin. The ANPG's data coverage includes both 2D and 3D surveys across nearly every major basin in Angola, making it a comprehensive resource for exploration.

Looking Ahead

Angola’s enhanced seismic data will be instrumental in de-risking exploration and supporting the country’s upcoming licensing round. Set to launch this year, the round will offer up to 10 blocks in the Kwanza and Benguela basins as part of Angola’s multi-year licensing strategy initiated in 2019, which aims to award up to 50 blocks for exploration. Alongside this, Angola has four onshore blocks available, 11 blocks on permanent offer and five marginal fields open for participation. By improving geological understanding of both onshore and offshore acreage, Angola is positioning itself to unlock new discoveries across its vast oil and gas landscape.

AOG 2025, scheduled for September 3-4 in Luanda, will provide a key platform to showcase Angola’s seismic advancements. Through presentations, panel discussions and ANPG-led dialogues, the event will highlight the country’s diverse geological landscape, covering both onshore and offshore blocks, as well as marginal fields. As the premier gathering for upstream operators, global data and analytic firms and government representatives, AOG 2025 offers unparalleled opportunities to connect, forge partnerships and secure deals in Angola’s burgeoning oil and gas sector.

AOG is the largest oil and gas event in Angola. Taking place with the full support of the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas; the National Oil, Gas and Biofuels Agency; the Petroleum Derivatives Regulatory Institute; national oil company Sonangol; and the African Energy Chamber; the event is a platform to sign deals and advance Angola’s oil and gas industry. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact [email protected].