As a result of our development projects in Côte d'Ivoire and Gabon together with our exploitation opportunities in these countries, the region will be a growth driver over the next few years.
East Espoir is CNR International's first producing oil field in Côte D'Ivoire. CNR International operates with a 58.67% working interest. Our share of this production is currently approximately 17 mboe/d. A four well infill program has been progressing through 2005.
Development of the West Espoir field has been sanctioned and development commenced in mid-2005 with first production expected mid-2006. Canadian Natural is operating with a 58.67% working interest. Production rates are expected to ramp up to 13 mboe/d, net to Canadian Natural.
The Baobab discovery was brought onstream in August 2005. The development plan included 8 oil producers and 3 water injection wells. CNR International operates and maintains a 57.61% working interest. Since start up, gross production has been around 50 mboe/d, or about 30 mboe/d net to Canadian Natural. We expect our share of production to eventually reach approximately 35 mboe/d.
In October 2005, Canadian Natural completed the acquisition of the Olowi Field, offshore Gabon. Development is expected to commence in 2006 for first oil in late 2008.
Offshore Côte d'Ivoire
