Sonatrach prepares entry into Senegal and Mauritania energy markets

Algerian energy group Sonatrach is turning toward Senegal and Mauritania as two prospective energy cooperation markets. Algerian Hydrocarbons Minister Mohamed Arkab confirmed that preparations are underway for Sonatrach to establish a presence in Senegal.

Official discussions with Senegalese oil company Petrosen are already underway. Algeria and Senegal examined possible cooperation across the oil and gas value chain, including exploration, production, field development, refining and petrochemicals. Training and knowledge transfer also hold an important place in the Algeria-Senegal discussions.

Senegalese Energy and Petroleum Minister El Hadji Abdourahmane Diouf visited Algiers on October 3 and 4, 2026, for talks on strengthening bilateral energy cooperation. Senegalese authorities raised the prospect of an intergovernmental agreement at the MSGBC Oil, Gas & Power conference scheduled for December 2 and 3, 2026, in Dakar.

In 2025, Sonatrach sent representatives to Senegal on a prospecting mission to identify partnership opportunities. Senegal's major energy projects include the Sangomar oil field and the Grand Tortue Ahmeyim gas project shared with Mauritania.

Arkab said that major opportunities are opening for Sonatrach in Mauritania. Arkab did not announce a signed contract, a specific project or a schedule for Sonatrach's entry into Mauritania.

Sonatrach's plans for Senegal and Mauritania follow its experience in Niger and Libya.