ExxonMobil and its partners have reinforced their long-term commitment to Angola through two strategic decisions that consolidate Block 15 as one of the pillars of the country’s oil production. The announcements include the overall expansion of the block’s operations until 2037 and a new investment of more than USD 3 billion dedicated to the development of the Kizomba C project, extending the lifespan of several critical infrastructures.
Hunter Farris, ExxonMobil’s Vice President for Deepwater Operations, revealed the decision to expand Block 15 after an audience with the President of the Republic, João Lourenço. According to Farris, extending operations until 2037 represents a significant milestone for the Angolan economy, ensuring continued wealth generation and reinforcing the country’s position in the global energy market. He added that the investment will bring direct benefits to the sector, including fiscal revenue, technological advancement and greater stimulus to the local market.
In parallel, the National Agency for Petroleum, Gas and Biofuels (ANPG) — together with the block’s contractor group, comprising ExxonMobil, Azule Energy, Equinor and Sonangol — announced the approval of the Final Investment Decision (FID) for the Mondo and Saxi-Batuque fields, part of the Kizomba C project. Valued at more than USD 3 billion, the initiative includes the renewal of infrastructure, the incorporation of cutting-edge technology and the extension of Kizomba C’s operational life until 2032, while the Kizomba A and B projects gain new longevity until 2037.
Paulino Jerónimo, Chairman of the ANPG Board of Directors, described Block 15 as one of Angola’s greatest success stories in the oil industry, highlighting its operational efficiency, contractual compliance and its significant contribution to the national economy. Jerónimo stated that the planned investment will allow for the recovery of additional resources, optimisation of existing infrastructure and enhanced operational sustainability.
Hunter Farris reiterated that the decision to keep investing in Angola stems from a favourable environment for private investors, marked by strong institutional cooperation, trust, solid fiscal stability and a history of successful partnerships. Brian Unietis, ExxonMobil’s Managing Director in Angola, added that extending the life of the Mondo and Saxi-Batuque fields represents the beginning of a new chapter for the country’s energy development.
Since operations began in 2003, Block 15 has been central to Angola’s oil production, with cumulative output exceeding 2.7 billion barrels and 18 commercial discoveries. ExxonMobil, which holds a 40% interest, estimates that the block has a gross potential of four billion barrels and has strengthened local investment over the decades, totalling nearly USD 4 billion in local goods and services.
Together, the decisions announced position Block 15 as a strategic asset for the coming years, ensuring not only continued production but also job creation, technology transfer and reinforced state revenue. According to Hunter Farris, “it is an honour for ExxonMobil to be part of Angola’s prosperous future,” at a time when the government continues to promote economic diversification and consolidate partnerships in the energy sector.
