Eni, the Italian oil company, has announced the discovery of its latest hydrocarbon deposit named Calao Sud off the coast of Ivory Coast, which is estimated to contain approximately 1.4 billion barrels of oil and natural gas. This new finding is expected to significantly enhance the country's annual hydrocarbon production capabilities. The Calao Sud deposit marks the fourth major discovery in just five years, showcasing the Ivory Coast's growing prominence in the oil and gas sector.

Previous discoveries include the Baleine project, which has about 2.5 billion barrels of oil and over 3 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, and the earlier Calao discovery made two years ago with a yield of over one billion barrels of oil equivalent. The proximity of these discoveries indicates a potentially larger and more productive hydrocarbon field offshore, positioning Ivory Coast as an emerging player in the global energy market.

Charles Thiémélé, the Africa director for trading company BGN, expressed enthusiasm about this significant discovery. He noted that the Calao Sud deposit will enhance existing reserves alongside the Baleine project, further contributing to the country’s economic growth and energy independence. This development is expected to attract more investment in the energy sector, driving infrastructure and creating job opportunities in the region.