Vaalco Energy has restarted production at the Baobab field, located in the CI-40 block offshore Côte d’Ivoire, after completing the renovation of the Baobab Ivoirien FPSO, a key unit for processing, storing, and offloading hydrocarbons in the offshore asset.
Furthermore, the company reported that the operational return was executed on schedule. The FPSO had ceased its hydrocarbon operations in January 2025 to undergo a technical intervention aimed at extending its useful life and ensuring its long-term performance.
The Baobab Ivoirien FPSO Returns to CI-40 Block
After nine months of work in Dubai, the vessel returned to Côte d’Ivoire at the beginning of the second quarter of 2026. Subsequently, it was moored in its final position and reconnected to the field’s infrastructure.
Currently, production has resumed in four producing wells. Vaalco expects to incorporate the remaining three wells shortly, while the field operates in line with its internal forecasts.
Baobab Field Prepares for a New Drilling Phase
Additionally, the FPSO renovation allows for progress towards the phase 5 development drilling program, scheduled to begin during the second half of 2026. The campaign includes four producing wells, between two and three injector wells, and two workovers.
Likewise, this plan could increase production from the main Baobab field and strengthen Vaalco’s position in Côte d’Ivoire, where the company has gained presence since early 2024.
A License Extended Until 2038
George Maxwell, Vaalco’s CEO, highlighted that the CI-40 block license remains extended until 2038. According to the company, this timeframe provides scope for further development and exploration work in the area.
Vaalco, founded in 1985 and headquartered in Houston, maintains production, development, and exploration assets in Gabon, Egypt, Côte d’Ivoire, and Equatorial Guinea. With the return of the Baobab field and its campaign in Gabon, the company seeks to sustain its growth through organic investment in 2026.
Source: Vaalco Energy
Photo: Shutterstock
