Story by Tapiwa Machemedze
INVICTUS Energy and its partners involved in the exploration of gas in the Muzarabani basin are set to commence drilling of a third well near Hoya, Muzarabani district, in the next phase of their drilling programme to gather more seismic data.
The Invictus board and management have been meeting in the country, with the company Chairperson John Bentley re-affirming commitment to the success of the Muzarabani Gas Exploration Project.
“This is the one asset that Invictus has, so it is getting our total focus. All the money we raise goes into this project, and to date, we have raised over US$130 million and nearly all of that has gone into the ground, here in this location.
“The guys in Perth who are highly qualified in technology, geology and geophysics have been looking at all the data that we collect from the wells and the seismic programme and from that we can determine how prospective that area is and from that this leads us to the next drilling programme,” Bentley said.
With two wells having been drilled out of its massive 440 000-hectare licenced exploration area, GeoAssociates Managing Director, Paul Chimbodza highlighted exploration will continue in the long term, although efforts are being made to convert gas to power in the short term.
“Our licence area is huge, around 440 000 hectares and we have drilled two wells, Mukuyu one and Mukuyu two in just one corner of a very huge license area. The seismic data that we have gathered over the years gives us several targets on where to drill.”
Mashonaland Central Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Christopher Magomo met with the Invictus board this Tuesday and reassured them of the government’s full support.
“The much-awaited exploitation of oil and gas resources in our provinces represents a transformative opportunity for Muzarabani, Mbire and the nation at large. This project has the power to unlock unprecedented economic growth, create jobs and catalyse infrastructure development lifting our communities to new heights of prosperity beyond our borders.”
Meanwhile, Invictus has established a permanent office in Muzarabani, underlining its confidence in the Muzarabani Gas Exploration Projection, with traditional leaders welcoming the move saying it will ensure easier communication.
