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Cabora Bassa Project PPSA Completion Paves Way for Mukuyu Gas Appraisal

Energy By Maxwell Dee 3 min read

Invictus Energy has completed the Petroleum Production Sharing Agreement process for its Cabora Bassa Project, setting the stage for significant gas exploration and development in Zimbabwe.

  • Completion of Petroleum Production Sharing Agreement (PPSA) process
  • Formal execution of PPSA expected in January 2026
  • Establishment of stable legal and fiscal framework for Zimbabwe’s oil and gas sector
  • Plans to appraise Mukuyu Gas Field and drill Musuma-1 exploration well
  • Strong government support highlighting energy security and economic benefits

A Milestone for Zimbabwe’s Energy Ambitions

Invictus Energy Ltd has announced the completion of the Petroleum Production Sharing Agreement (PPSA) process for its flagship Cabora Bassa Project in Zimbabwe. This milestone marks a critical step in formalising the legal and fiscal framework that will govern petroleum operations in the country’s underexplored Cabora Bassa Basin.

The PPSA, expected to be formally executed in January 2026, provides Invictus with the regulatory certainty needed to advance its exploration and development plans. The agreement is designed to be stable, transparent, and internationally competitive, reflecting Zimbabwe’s commitment to attracting investment into its nascent oil and gas sector.

Unlocking the Mukuyu Gas Field and Beyond

With the PPSA process concluded, Invictus is poised to move forward with a high-impact work program. Central to this is the appraisal of the Mukuyu Gas Field, where previous drilling has confirmed gas-condensate discoveries. Additionally, the company plans to drill the Musuma-1 exploration well, targeting a new play in the eastern portion of the basin that could significantly expand the resource base.

Managing Director Scott Macmillan emphasised the importance of the PPSA in enabling ongoing investment and development planning. He highlighted the government’s strong support and the strategic role the project could play in enhancing Zimbabwe’s energy security and economic growth.

Government Backing and Economic Implications

The Honourable Minister of Finance, Prof Mthuli Ncube, welcomed the completion of the PPSA process, underscoring the government’s recognition of the Cabora Bassa Project’s potential to contribute to national energy security. The new legal framework aims to provide investors with confidence, encouraging further exploration and development activities that could have far-reaching economic benefits for Zimbabwe.

As one of the last large frontier rift basins onshore Africa, the Cabora Bassa Basin represents a significant opportunity not only for Invictus but also for the broader regional energy landscape. The project’s progress will be closely watched by investors and industry observers eager to see how Zimbabwe positions itself in the evolving African energy market.

Looking Ahead

While the formal execution of the PPSA is imminent, the real test will come with the upcoming appraisal and exploration results. These will determine the commercial viability of the discoveries and the pace at which development can proceed. For now, Invictus has laid a solid foundation to build upon, backed by a supportive government and a clear regulatory path forward.

Bottom Line?

With the PPSA process complete, all eyes turn to upcoming drilling results that will define Zimbabwe’s energy future.

Questions in the middle?

  • When exactly will the PPSA be formally executed and what conditions remain?
  • What are the expected timelines and costs for the Mukuyu Gas Field appraisal and Musuma-1 drilling?
  • How will Zimbabwe’s new legal framework compare to other African oil and gas jurisdictions in attracting investment?