Vaalco Energy Brings Baobab Field Online with Four Wells After Nine-Month FPSO Overhaul
EGY•Vaalco Energy has resumed production at its Baobab offshore Côte d’Ivoire field after completing a nine-month FPSO refurbishment in Dubai, reactivating four wells with three more expected online soon. The company maintains production is meeting expectations and plans a phase five drilling program of four new wells in H2 2026.
1. FPSO Overhaul Completion
Vaalco Energy completed a nine-month refurbishment of its Baobab Ivoirien FPSO vessel in Dubai, upgrading processing equipment and extending operational lifespan to support resumed hydrocarbon operations, which had been halted since January 2025.
2. Production Performance and Well Status
The refurbished FPSO returned to the CI-40 block offshore Côte d’Ivoire in early Q2 2026, bringing four wells online with three additional wells expected to restart shortly, with current output aligning with company forecasts.
3. Upcoming Development Drilling
Vaalco plans a phase five drilling campaign in H2 2026, targeting four new production wells, two to three injector wells, and two well workovers, aimed at increasing field throughput and overall recovery rates.
4. Field Reserves and Strategic Outlook
Baobab field, discovered in 2001, holds estimated reserves of 700 million barrels with 200 million barrels recoverable at 23° API; the CI-40 license extends through 2038, underpinning long-term development and value potential for shareholders.
