By Saidu Jalloh, Daily Scope
Sierra Leone’s government has reached a significant milestone in its energy sector by signing a Reconnaissance Permit Agreement with Eni S.p.A., a global leader in the energy industry. This agreement, facilitated by the Petroleum Directorate, grants Eni access to five offshore blocks—G-113, G-129, G-130, G-131, and G-132—covering approximately 6,790 square kilometers of the country’s territorial waters. These blocks are situated in one of West Africa’s least explored basins, setting the stage for advanced geological and geophysical evaluations.
As part of the approved Minimum Reconnaissance Work Programme, Eni will utilize state-of-the-art technology to conduct comprehensive subsurface studies. This initiative aims to establish a solid, data-driven understanding of Sierra Leone’s hydrocarbon potential, laying the groundwork for future exploration and sustainable development.
Eng. Foday B. L. Mansaray, Director General of the Petroleum Directorate, hailed the agreement as a “transformative achievement” that underscores Sierra Leone’s regulatory integrity and investment climate. He noted that the partnership extends beyond exploration, promising to enhance institutional capacity, improve data quality, and promote responsible resource management.
President Julius Maada Bio viewed the deal as a strategic milestone, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and inclusive growth. “This partnership signals our readiness to responsibly harness our natural resources, driving economic diversification, job creation, and shared prosperity,” he stated.
Eni S.p.A., headquartered in Rome, Italy, brings decades of expertise in offshore exploration and sustainable gas development throughout West Africa. Its entry into Sierra Leone’s energy sector positions the country as a promising frontier for regional petroleum investment.
The Petroleum Directorate, tasked with regulating and promoting the country’s petroleum resources, will oversee all activities to ensure alignment with national interests and uphold rigorous governance standards.
This agreement not only ignites hope for energy independence but also strengthens Sierra Leone’s path toward long-term economic resilience and enhanced global standing in the energy sector.
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