Energy major Shel! has signed an exploration agreement with Angola’s Ministry of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas for three blocks in the offshore Kwanza Basin. The agreement grants the energy major — alongside its partners Equinor and Sonangol E&P – exclusive rights to conduct exploration activities at
Blocks 19, 34 and 39, strengthening its portfolio following its return in September 2025.
Situated in the deep- and ultra-deep waters of the Kwanza Basin, the three blocks offer significant hydrocarbon potential. The partners are expected to kickstart technical and operational studies in the coming months under efforts to determine the blocks’ oil potential in support of an upcoming exploration phase.
“This agreement represents not only a technical and economic opportunity, but also a sign of renewed confidence in the Angolan institutional environment,” stated Diamantino Azevedo, Minister of Mineral Resources, Petroleum and Gas, Angola.
The agreement follows a deal signed during Angola Oi! & Gas 2025 between Angola’s upstream regulator the National Oil, Gas & Biofuels Agency, Shell, Sonangol and Chevron. Covering Block 33/24, the deal signaled Shell’s return to Angola after a 20-year hiatus, representing a key step towards the development of the block.
