Algeria’s state-owned energy company Sonatrach has officially resumed oil and gas drilling operations in Libya, marking a pivotal moment in regional energy cooperation after a decade-long suspension. The restart took place in mid-October 2025 at Block 95/96 in the Ghadames Basin, a strategic site near the Libyan-Algerian border and approximately 100 kilometers from the Wafa field. Sonatrach plans to drill to a final depth of 8,440 feet, building on earlier exploration efforts that were halted in May 2014 due to escalating security concerns. This return signals renewed confidence in Libya’s improving stability and regulatory environment, and reflects Algeria’s commitment to expanding its energy footprint in neighboring markets.
The decision to resume operations follows a promising oil and gas discovery made in 2013, when preliminary studies indicated the field could yield approximately 8,200 barrels of crude oil and 1,700 cubic meters of natural gas per day. Sonatrach originally signed an exploration and production-sharing agreement for the area in 2008, and its re-entry into Libya’s energy sector aligns with the country’s broader $3–4 billion oil recovery plan. This national strategy aims to restore production levels, modernize infrastructure, and attract foreign investment to revitalize Libya’s position as a leading energy supplier in Africa.
Libya, which holds the continent’s largest proven oil reserves at 48 billion barrels, has faced repeated disruptions in output due to political unrest and conflict since 2011. Sonatrach’s return is widely viewed as a vote of confidence in Libya’s efforts to stabilize its energy sector and create a more secure environment for international investors. The move also underscores Algeria’s strategic interest in fostering regional energy collaboration, particularly in petroleum services, technical training, and infrastructure development.
The resumption of drilling is expected to boost Libya’s production capacity and contribute to regional energy stability. It opens the door for further cooperation between the two countries, potentially leading to joint ventures and shared expertise in exploration and development. As other international energy firms cautiously re-enter Libya, Sonatrach’s initiative could serve as a catalyst for broader investment and long-term growth in the country’s oil and gas industry. This milestone not only reflects the resilience of Libya’s energy ambitions but also highlights the importance of regional partnerships in shaping the future of North African energy.