Côte d’Ivoire Recognized by SLB for Leadership in Oil and Gas

On the occasion of its centenary, SLB (formerly known as Schlumberger), a global energy technology and services company, has recognized Côte d’Ivoire for its technological leadership in the oil and gas sector. The distinction highlights the momentum of the country’s offshore industry, particularly following the Baleine and Calao field discoveries.

To mark 100 years of operations, SLB selected several countries for their technological leadership in the hydrocarbons sector. Côte d’Ivoire was among those recognized for the transformation underway in its oil and gas industry. The distinction, presented on September 7, 2026, highlights the country’s ability to create an attractive environment for the development of its resources.

“Today, it is a great honor to highlight what is happening in Côte d’Ivoire. The country has created an environment conducive to attracting investors, accelerating the development of its resources and, above all, adopting new technologies. You can be proud of what you are offering your people,” said Ndubuisi Maduemezia, SLB’s President for Europe and Africa. He described the ceremony as an opportunity “to recognize the positive transformation currently taking place in the country.”

The award also reflects the new trajectory of Côte d’Ivoire’s oil and gas industry under the leadership of Minister Sangafowa-Coulibaly and President Alassane Ouattara. The discoveries of Baleine and Calao, two major offshore fields, have accelerated the deployment of advanced technologies in operations across Côte d’Ivoire’s sedimentary basin and strengthened the partnership between SLB and Côte d’Ivoire.

The special award was received on behalf of Minister Sangafowa-Coulibaly by Côte d’Ivoire’s Ambassador to France, H.E. Maurice Kouakou Bandama.

“For Côte d’Ivoire, this award is recognition of the efforts being made in oil exploration and discovery,” he said, highlighting progress “in terms of infrastructure, environmental standards and technological cooperation,” which he said had helped make discoveries such as Baleine possible.

Focus on SIREXE 2026

Discussions following the award ceremony continued around SIREXE 2026 and the opportunities it will create. The stated objective is to position Côte d’Ivoire as a leading regional hub for energy, mining and investment.

The distinction therefore reinforces a broader ambition: to turn recent discoveries into a sustainable driver of development, supported by technological innovation and strong international partnerships.