Volatile environment demands flexible solutions

In the Namibian concession areas oil and gas exploration has quietened down in recent months but companies are remaining vigilant and ready to jump back into action at a moment’s notice. According to various experts, the current slump in the industry is attributed to the global oil price slump and exploration companies seeking more financing, consolidating resources and re-evaluating prospects. Nolito Marques, general manager: public relations and marketing for Manica Group Namibia, told FTW there was limited activity in the Namibian waters at present. “The final investment decision on the Kudu Gas Project has been moved to the middle/end of this year, pending full financing of the project,” said Marques. Manica has been involved in oil and gas exploration logistics since the 1970s – and while the industry may be quiet at present, it still provides services and supplies to some of the rigs drilling in Angolan and Nigerian waters that opt to use Walvis Bay for repairs and stacking. Marques said with several licensing blocks having not yet been explored, and seismic exploration ongoing to find new targets, there was still major opportunity in the industry. “At this stage the volumes are however still unknown. We believe timing and uncertainties are the key challenges in the industry at the moment,” said Marques. “The scope of work, however, can change very swiftly and one needs to be able to respond to this volatile environment and have the capacity available. In this regard we are striving to remain flexible.” Patrick Kohlstaedt, acting managing director of Manica, said they had established new ventures to support the industry in Namibia. “Monjasa Namibia is a bunkering service provider, supplying fuel to the Namibian Marine industry. Orca Marine Service is a launch service operating in the port of Walvis Bay, supporting rigs and vessels in the bay. Operations follow the highest safety standards to comply with stringent industry requirements,” he said. The oil and gas industry demands a dedicated onestop- shop service, he added. “Time is money, and they do not want to have to deal with any delays, hassles or red tape. As a service provider you need to meet their expectations.” INSERT & CAPTION We believe timing and uncertainties are the key challenges in the industry at the moment. – Nolito Marques