In the News:
• Senegal’s oil production reached 36.1 million barrels in 2025.
• Output driven by steady offshore operations at the Sangomar field.
• The country also exported LNG its gas field.
Senegal has recorded a surge in oil production totaling 36.1 million barrels in 2025, exceeding official forecasts for the year.
The higher output places the country above its revised production target and strengthens its position as a new oil producer in West Africa.
In a statement released by its Ministry of Energy, Petroleum and Mines, the government said national oil production outperformed earlier projections due to stable offshore operations and improved well performance.
The ministry stated that initial forecasts for 2025 placed output at 30.53 million barrels before being revised to 34.7 million barrels mid year.
In December alone, Senegal sold three crude cargoes on international markets, with combined volumes of 2.94 million barrels.
Oil production in the country is concentrated in the Sangomar offshore oil field. The field has been operated by Woodside Energy since mid 2024 and represents Senegal’s first large scale oil development.
Authorities explained that the stronger than expected performance was supported by effective reservoir behaviour, routine well maintenance and efficient offshore production systems.
The higher oil output comes as Senegal continues efforts to build a stable upstream sector after years of exploration and project development.
Commercial oil production only began recently, placing the country among Africa’s newer crude producers.
Why Senegal exceeded its oil production target
Moreover, officials at the energy ministry attributed the increase in production to high technical performance at the Sangomar field.
According to local reports, improved reservoir delivery allowed operators to maintain production rates beyond planned levels.
Offshore infrastructure operated without major disruptions during the year. This stability supported consistent crude lifting schedules and allowed the country to load and sell cargoes as planned.
The report also notes that production planning was also adjusted mid year as output data became clearer.
The revised forecast of 34.7 million barrels was set to reflect operational performance, though final figures eventually surpassed that estimate.
The government views the outcome as an indication that offshore oil projects can deliver reliable volumes when supported by proper maintenance and operational discipline.
Authorities stated that continued monitoring of field performance will guide production planning in the coming months.
Gas exports add to energy output
Apart from oil, Senegal also recorded its highest liquefied natural gas output for the year in December.
The country exported 0.5 million cubic metres of LNG from the Greater Tortue Ahmeyim gas field during the month.
The gas field is jointly operated with Mauritania and represents a key part of both countries’ gas development plans.
LNG exports from the project are expected to support energy revenues and improve regional gas supply over time.
Officials stated that gas production performance benefited from coordinated offshore operations and stable processing facilities.
The December export marked a peak for the year and added to Senegal’s overall energy output.
Higher oil output in 2025 has given Senegal a stronger production base as it plans future upstream operations.
