Freetown, Sierra Leone – July 7, 2025 –
Sierra Leone may be sitting on an estimated 30 billion barrels of crude oil and gas, valued at a staggering $2.1 trillion, according to new research from American and Russian energy giants, Anadarko and Lukoil, as reported by African Report File.
The discovery positions Sierra Leone as a potential new heavyweight in Africa’s oil and gas industry. The seismic data—gathered during offshore exploration—has drawn significant attention from major international oil companies (IOCs).
The country’s Petroleum Directorate is now preparing to launch a new licensing round later this year, inviting global oil players to bid for exploration and production rights.
Oil majors including Shell, Hess Corporation, Murphy Oil, and Brazil’s Petrobras have reportedly already purchased access to the new seismic data, signaling strong interest.
If exploration leads to commercial production, the development could dramatically boost Sierra Leone’s economy.
With a population of just over 8 million and vast untapped mineral resources—including diamonds, gold, iron ore, and bauxite—the potential oil windfall could transform the country into one of Africa’s major economic powerhouses.
Government officials have yet to confirm the start date for the licensing round, but maintain that all processes will be transparent and geared toward long-term national benefit.