Tullow Oil makes 'important' discovery in Kenya

The FTSE 250 company has encountered around 75m of net oil play in two zones at the well, which is located 2.5 km north of Etom-2 and had the objective of drilling a fault block on the flank of the Greater Etom structure.

The well was drilled to a total measured depth of 1,356 metres and penetrated reservoir quality Miocene sandstones which correlate to those seen in the successful Etom-2 well. Tullow said the downhole pressure measurements and fluid samples suggest that the main oil reservoir is on the same static pressure gradient as the Etom-2 well which demonstrates that a major part of the Greater Etom structure is oil-filled.

In addition, the reservoir sands encountered appear to be extensive, which further de-risks the northern play area and bodes well for future exploration in the region.

Exploration director Angus McCoss said: "The Emekuya-1 exploratory appraisal well has made an important discovery in the northern part of the South Lokichar Basin. This well has proven oil charge across a significant part of the Greater Etom structure and we are very encouraged by the quality and particularly the regional extent of the reservoir.

"We now look forward to the remainder of the Kenya exploration and appraisal campaign in support of the ongoing work to prepare this important asset for Full Field Development."

Tullow operates Blocks 13T and 10BB with 50% equity and is partnered by Africa Oil Corporation and Maersk Oil both with 25%.