Senegal has just launched a $100 million program to revive onshore oil and gas exploration, reflecting a clear commitment to strengthening its energy sovereignty and the role of its national oil company, Petrosen.

Senegal’s Energy Context

For several years, Senegal has emerged as a new hydrocarbon producer thanks to the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (gas) and Sangomar (oil) offshore projects, which gradually entered production between 2024 and 2025. These developments have paved the way for a more ambitious strategy aimed at maximizing economic benefits and reducing the country’s dependence on energy imports.

A $100 Million USD Onshore Exploration Program

Senegal’s national oil company, Petrosen, has announced a $100 million USD (over 55 billion CFA francs) onshore exploration program for 2026. This is the first large-scale onshore campaign in decades, financed and managed directly by the national company, which aims to lead the next major discovery itself.

Strategic Project Objectives

This program primarily aims to identify new oil and gas deposits on the mainland, building on positive geological data from offshore exploration. The goal is to increase national reserves to strengthen the country’s energy security and increase the share of value captured locally in the oil and gas value chain.

Revival of Onshore Exploration

Onshore exploration will be based on assumptions of continuity between offshore discoveries and inland sedimentary basins, which are still largely underexplored. The initial phases will focus on detailed geophysical studies, before moving on to exploratory drilling to confirm the potential of the targeted areas.

Strengthened Role of Petrosen

Under the leadership of Alioune Guèye, Petrosen is seeking to position itself as a fully-fledged operator, and no longer simply as a partner of major international companies. This expansion reflects an African trend where national companies – in Nigeria, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea – are seeking to regain control over exploration and production.

Economic and Social Stakes

Beyond the potential for budgetary revenue, the USD 100 million program is seen as a lever for creating skilled jobs and developing the territories involved. The authorities are highlighting the potential to strengthen the local oil services sector, stimulate SMEs, and generate infrastructure in exploration areas.

Environmental and Governance Challenges

However, the resumption of onshore exploration raises questions of governance, transparency, and environmental impact management. In the context of the energy transition, Senegal will have to reconcile the exploitation of its fossil fuel resources, climate commitments, and the protection of communities living near future drilling sites.

Prospects for the Resumption

Analysts will closely monitor the initial drilling results, which will determine whether the onshore program continues or expands. A significant discovery could strengthen the country’s status as a regional energy hub, provided it maintains a stable and attractive regulatory framework while ensuring the equitable sharing of benefits with the local population.