Komo Ressources Group Makes History as First Gabonese Private Operator to Deliver Oil at Autour Field
Gabon has opened a new chapter in its energy story for the first time, a private national oil operator, known as Komo Ressources Group (KOREG), has brought a field from exploration to first oil, delivering the inaugural barrels from the Autour field on November 27, 2025. The achievement is more than a technical milestone; it reflects an economic shift, a rise in local expertise and a renewed confidence in Gabonese operators. This is a milestone with expansive economic potential
KOREG’s success arrives at a moment where Gabon is working to revive its upstream sector and broaden the base of companies contributing to national production. First oil at Autour is expected to: Boost local revenue at a time when the state is prioritizing diversification and fiscal stability. Stimulate local contracting, as the supply chain from logistics to civil works, will benefit from KOREG’s accelerated development timeline. Strengthen investor confidence, demonstrating that new operators can move assets efficiently from exploration to production. Increase Gabon’s flexibility, as additional barrels will enhance the security of domestic supply and reduce dependence on aging fields. As for the young indigenous company, bringing a new field online in under two years, indicates a maturing business environment where local operators can act decisively and deliver results.
Human benefits spanning skills, jobs and local capacity are in consideration. The Autour field is also a story about people. KOREG’s rapid development program created technical roles for Gabonese engineers, geoscientists and technicians, while also expanding demand for community-level services from transportation to catering.
The project’s capacity-building ripple effects include: Practical field experience for early-career engineers who rarely gain exposure to end-to-end project development; new training opportunities linked to the central processing facility, drilling operations and HSE compliance; and, expanding the national human capacity pool, able to run modern oilfield infrastructure without heavy external dependence. These human-capacity gains are essential for a country aiming to extend domestic control of its energy assets. It also carries a social signal of inclusion and national participation.
KOREG’s achievement carries strong symbolic weight. It demonstrates that indigenous companies can secure state partnerships, attract international contractors and manage complex industrial projects. This reinforces the government’s broader agenda of: greater local participation in strategic sectors; fairer value redistribution to regions hosting oil operations; and a more transparent, accountable and community-inclusive energy framework
As new oil revenues flow, communities near Autour are expected to benefit from improved services, expanded small-business opportunities and greater engagement through local content requirements. These elements the reforms that enable results.
The rapid turnaround at Autour comes amid a reform-driven environment shaped by President Brice Oligui Nguema and Oil Minister Sosthène Nguema Nguema. Updated petroleum laws, a modernized labor framework and clearer operating rules have lowered barriers for both national and international investors.
In the view of the African Energy Chamber (AEC), KOREG’s accomplishment validates these reforms and demonstrates the value of empowering domestic companies. “First oil from the Autour field is not just a win for KOREG; it is a win for Gabon”, – says NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “This achievement shows that when national companies are empowered, they rise to the challenge”.
A new model for Gabon’s upstream future. With Autour now online, KOREG becomes a reference point for what Gabonese operators can achieve when aligned with clear policy direction, modern regulation and strong technical partnerships. The company’s example is likely to encourage more local firms to compete in exploration rounds and bid for mature fields.
As Gabon looks ahead to unlocking deepwater prospects and revitalizing onshore basins, the Autour milestone stands as proof that the future of Gabon’s energy sector will increasingly be shaped by its own people, its own companies and its own vision for inclusive development.
