TotalEnergies has expanded its offshore exploration presence in Namibia, while Brazil’s Petrobras has returned to the country’s upstream sector, following a new agreement covering acreage in the largely unexplored Luderitz Basin.

The two energy companies have entered separate deals with Namibian junior explorers that will give them a combined 42.5% operated stake in Petroleum Exploration Licence (PEL) 104, located offshore southern Namibia. TotalEnergies is set to operate the licence once the transaction is completed.

The move highlights growing interest by major international oil companies in Namibia’s frontier basins, beyond the better-known Orange Basin where recent discoveries have drawn global attention. The Luderitz Basin remains underexplored, but geologists see it as a promising area with potential for significant oil and gas finds.

For Petrobras, the agreement marks a return to Namibia after several years away, as the Brazilian state-controlled company looks to broaden its exploration portfolio outside South America.

TotalEnergies, already active offshore Namibia, continues to deepen its involvement in the country as part of its long-term exploration strategy in Africa.

The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and standard conditions, including consent from Namibia’s petroleum authorities. If approved, the partnership could lead to new seismic surveys and, eventually, exploratory drilling on the licence.

Namibia has emerged as one of Africa’s most attractive new exploration destinations, with authorities encouraging further investment to support future energy development and economic growth.