Algeria and Niger kick off joint oil exploration in Kafra South field

In a landmark move for energy collaboration between North and West Africa, Algeria and Niger have officially launched drilling operations for the Kafra South-East 1 exploration well. The ceremony, held in the northern Nigerien oil basin of Kafra, marks a pivotal moment in the strengthening of bilateral ties and the advancement of shared economic ambitions.

Strategic partnership takes concrete form in Kafra’s oil basin

On the sun-baked plains of the Kafra field, government leaders from both nations gathered to celebrate the start of exploration activities. Representing Algeria, Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb joined his Nigerien counterpart, Ali Lamine Zeine Mahaman, in a high-profile event underscoring mutual commitment.

A broad delegation accompanied the Algerian Prime Minister, including key figures such as:

• Mohamed Arkab, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Hydrocarbons;
• Lounès Magramane, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;
• Noureddine Daoudi, CEO of Sonatrach;
• Saadi Ahmed, Algerian Ambassador to Niger.

The commencement of drilling at Kafra South-East 1 signals Sonatrach’s direct involvement in unlocking Niger’s untapped oil potential, reinforcing a partnership built on technical expertise and shared resources.

From diplomatic pledges to tangible economic outcomes

This initiative is the result of a broader vision shared by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and Nigerien Head of State General Abdourahamane Tiani. Their joint commitment aims to elevate bilateral relations from symbolic gestures to impactful, on-the-ground collaboration—particularly in energy and hydrocarbons.

Key insight: The drilling launch at Kafra represents more than a project—it’s a transition from political alignment to real-world industrial cooperation, with a focus on energy as a catalyst for regional development.

Investment momentum gathers pace across the Sahel

This latest venture follows closely on the heels of recent milestones, including the inauguration of the Niamey power plant. It stems directly from decisions made during the second session of the Algeria-Niger High-Level Joint Cooperation Commission, held in Niamey in March 2026.

By expediting critical infrastructure projects, both nations are not only expanding cross-border investment opportunities but also laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth across the Sahel region.

By Mariama Hamani — Analyst