Senegal’s First Offshore Oil Project Approaches 100,000-Barrel Daily Output
Operated by Woodside Energy in partnership with PETROSEN, Senegal's first major offshore oil project is approaching its target output of 100,000 barrels per day, strengthening the country's position as an emerging energy producer in Africa.
The country’s first major offshore oil development is approaching its target output of 100,000 barrels per day, marking a significant milestone in Senegal’s journey to becoming one of Africa’s emerging energy producers.
DAKAR, Senegal – Senegal’s flagship Sangomar Oil Field is steadily approaching its target production capacity of 100,000 barrels of oil per day, less than two years after commercial production began, underscoring the country’s growing role in Africa’s energy sector.
According to Senegal’s Ministry of Energy, Petroleum and Mines, the offshore project has recorded strong operational performance since production commenced in June 2024, with output continuing to increase as facilities ramp up towards full capacity.
Located approximately 100 kilometres south of Dakar in the Sangomar Deep Offshore Block, the oil field is Senegal’s first major offshore petroleum development and is widely regarded as a transformative project for the country’s economy.
The project is operated by Australian energy company Woodside Energy, which holds an 82% operating interest, in partnership with Senegal’s national oil company PETROSEN, which owns the remaining 18% stake.
Officials say the field has consistently delivered stable production while maintaining high operational reliability, strengthening confidence in Senegal’s emerging oil and gas industry.
The Sangomar development is expected to play a central role in boosting government revenue, attracting foreign investment and creating employment opportunities across the country’s energy value chain.
Energy Minister Birame Souleye Diop said the project’s progress reflects Senegal’s commitment to developing its natural resources responsibly while ensuring that petroleum revenues contribute to long-term national development.
Industry analysts believe Sangomar represents a turning point for Senegal, positioning the country alongside Africa’s growing group of oil-producing nations. The project is also expected to enhance energy security and support investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare and other priority sectors through increased government revenues.
Since first oil was achieved in 2024, multiple cargoes of crude have been successfully exported to international markets, demonstrating the project’s commercial viability and Senegal’s ability to compete in the global energy industry.
The development comes as Senegal prepares for additional growth in its hydrocarbons sector, including the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) liquefied natural gas project, which it shares with neighbouring Mauritania. Together, the two projects are expected to reshape the country’s energy landscape and strengthen its position as an emerging producer of both oil and natural gas.
Woodside Energy has previously described Sangomar as one of the company’s key international assets, noting that the project has met production expectations while maintaining high safety and environmental standards.
Economists say the continued expansion of Senegal’s petroleum industry could diversify the country’s economy, increase export earnings and improve fiscal revenues, provided resource wealth is managed transparently and invested in sustainable development.
As production continues to ramp up towards its design capacity of 100,000 barrels per day, the Sangomar Oil Field is expected to remain at the centre of Senegal’s strategy to become a competitive and responsible energy producer in Africa.
TNAM
By Egwu Patience Nnennaya
Wednesday July 8, 2026.
