Africa to dominate high-impact wellsAfrica is set to be the main driver of global exploration in 2026, accounting for around 40% of planned high-impact exploration wells globally. Ultra-deep waters mark the 2026 strategyRystad Energy ‘s projections indicate that about 60% of the high-impact wells slated for 2026 will be located in ultra-deepwater, reflecting a clear shift toward technically complex but materially scaled resource potential environments. Onshore, virtually all high-impact drilling will be concentrated in Africa, with the exception of one well in Greenland. Exploratory success and pressure for new resourcesThe push toward high-impact wells is supported by better recent results. Asia grows, North America slows downOutside Africa, Asia has eight high-impact wells planned, led by Indonesia, India and Malaysia.

Source: The North Africa Journal February 01, 2026 10:54 UTC