Niger and Algeria launch Kafra Sud-Est 1 oil project

Niger and Algeria have officially launched the ‘Kafra Sud-Est 1’ strategic oil project in the Agadez region. The inauguration ceremony, held on August 13, 2026, in Kafra, was attended by Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine and Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb.

The project is being executed by ENAFOR, a subsidiary of the Algerian state-owned group Sonatrach. This drilling operation, located 85 km from the shared border, aims for a depth of 3,900 meters. The Kafra oil block is estimated to contain approximately 260 million barrels of oil, operating under a production-sharing contract between Sonatrach’s Sipex subsidiary and the Nigerien state.

Beyond resource extraction, the partnership emphasizes technology transfer and the professional training of Nigerien personnel in the hydrocarbon sector. For Niger, the project is viewed as a critical step toward energy sovereignty, economic development, and increased budget revenues. For Algeria, the initiative serves as a demonstration of technical expertise and a means to strengthen its regional presence.