Invictus Energy has confirmed that drilling of the Musuma-1 exploration well will begin in November 2026. The announcement follows the execution of an amended drilling agreement with Exalo Drilling, securing the use of Rig 202 for the campaign and allowing the company to move forward with final preparations for the well.
Zimbabwe is continuing efforts to develop its emerging oil and gas industry, with exploration activities in the Cabora Bassa Basin remaining central to the country’s strategy of attracting energy investment and strengthening domestic resource development. The basin has drawn increasing attention from international explorers following the Mukuyu gas-condensate discovery, which highlighted the region’s potential to host significant hydrocarbon resources.
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Resource potential
The Musuma-1 prospect is regarded as one of the key targets within the Cabora Bassa Project and is expected to provide important data on the basin’s resource potential. Preparatory activities are already underway, including rig maintenance, procurement of well services and mobilisation planning.
Construction of the wellpad and related infrastructure is scheduled to commence after consultations with local communities and traditional leaders. Meanwhile, Exalo will undertake a maintenance and operational-readiness programme for Rig 202 before it is transported to the drilling site and assembled for operations.
Invictus said contracts for the remaining drilling services are being finalized, with equipment expected to be mobilized in stages ahead of the planned spud date. The company believes the well could significantly expand the project’s resource base and build on the results achieved at the Mukuyu discovery.
The drilling campaign marks another important step in assessing the commercial potential of the Cabora Bassa Basin, which has emerged as one of Southern Africa’s most closely watched frontier exploration regions. Success at Musuma-1 could further enhance Zimbabwe’s prospects of developing a domestic oil and gas industry and attracting additional investment into the country’s energy sector.
