Algerian Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, recently engaged in a significant videoconference with Niger’s Minister of Petroleum, Hamadou Tini, to explore avenues for advancing bilateral collaboration within the vital hydrocarbon sector.
The high-level discussions, attended by key officials from both ministries, focused on the latest activities undertaken by Algeria’s national oil company, Sonatrach, in the Republic of Niger. Particular attention was given to operations at the Kafra oil field block. This engagement builds upon the foundational Algeria-Niger memorandum of understanding on hydrocarbons, which was formally inked on March 24, 2026. That agreement coincided with the second session of the Algeria-Niger Joint Cooperation Commission, co-chaired by Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb and his Nigerien counterpart, Ali Lamine Zeine.
During the talks, ministers meticulously reviewed the ongoing development and exploration efforts within the Kafra block. They also assessed the level of operational coordination between Sonatrach, through its subsidiary Sonatrach International Production and Exploration Corporation (SIPEX), and the Société Nigérienne du Pétrole (SONIDEP).
Both parties underscored the critical importance of actively involving Nigerien businesses and companies in energy projects. This strategic inclusion aims to champion local content development and provide robust support for Niger’s economic expansion.
Further discussions explored enhancing cooperation across various domains, including specialized training, technology transfer, and the exchange of expertise. Plans include organizing dedicated training programs for executives and technicians from both nations, alongside fostering partnerships between national enterprises such as Sonatrach, SONIDEP, and Naftal. These collaborations are particularly vital for optimizing petroleum product transport, storage, distribution, and securing essential supply chains.
Concluding their productive meeting, the two ministers unequivocally reaffirmed their shared determination to fortify bilateral cooperation in the hydrocarbon sector. They pledged to diligently implement agreed-upon projects, driving economic development and promoting greater energy integration between Algeria and Niger.
