The ASX-listed miner confirmed the discovery of high-quality natural gas at the Mukuyu gas field, marking a significant stride in the country’s energy sector.
The energy firm’s December drilling campaign unearthed two material discoveries, recovering 15 downhole gas and gas-condensate samples from both the Upper and Lower Angwa Formation targets in the Mukuyu-2/ST-1 well.
“The results from Mukuyu-2 are consistent with our geological modelling of the Cabora Bassa Basin and the presence of both light oil and gas-condensate provides us with confidence as we prepare for the next phase of our appraisal program and work towards the monetisation of the Mukuyu gas discoveries and further exploration of our exciting portfolio of multiple drill ready prospects which has been substantially enhanced by the positive results from Mukuyu,” Invictus managing director, Scott Macmillan, said in an update.
Mines Minister Zhemu Soda expressed optimism on the presence of light oil condensate as well as helium and hydrogen in the Mukuyu deposit.
“The incredible potential of the Mukuyu field predetermined even in previous exploration campaigns has now been confirmed. Zimbabwe is on course to be counted as a player in the oil and gas industry,” Soda said.
“There are unimaginable spinoffs for the economy and for Zimbabweans at large from oil and gas extraction and the attendant value chain activities.”
Invictus said the discovery not only underscores the vast potential of the Mukuyu gas field but also designates a new petroleum province within the Cabora Bassa basin.
The gas discoveries, with condensate gas ratios estimated between 14-22 barrels per million standard cubic foot and a condensate American Petroleum Institute gravity of 50-60, confirm the presence of light oil and high-quality natural gas with minimal impurities.