Invictus Energy Advances Cabora Bassa Gas Project, Paving Way for Zimbabwe’s Energy Future

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Zimbabwe's push toward energy self-sufficiency has taken a major step forward, as Invictus Energy, the Australian-based exploration firm, reports major progress on its Cabora Bassa gas project in Mashonaland Central Province.

Situated across Mbire and Muzarabani districts, the project is rapidly evolving from exploration to pre-commercial stages, promising not only to boost domestic energy security but also stimulate regional investment and industrial growth.

Government Set to Grant National Project Status

The Zimbabwean government has moved to grant National Project Status to Cabora Bassa—an acknowledgment of its strategic importance. Finalisation of the Petroleum Production Sharing Agreement (PPSA) is also in its final stages.

“The Government looks forward to the successful formalisation of National Project Status and the long-term benefits the project will bring to Zimbabwe,” said Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube.

This designation will accelerate development by unlocking fiscal and administrative incentives, including:

• Duty-free importation of key equipment

• Fast-tracked permitting processes

• Enhanced infrastructure access
  

Over US$80 Million Invested, Gas Confirmed

Since its 2022 launch, Invictus Energy has invested over US$80 million into the Cabora Bassa project. The discovery of natural gas and condensate in the Mukuyu field marked a breakthrough, attracting regional attention.

The company has also received Environmental Management Agency (EMA) approval for its Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA)—a key prerequisite for production activities.

“We remain on track with preparations for the Musuma-1 exploration well,” said Managing Director Scott Macmillan, noting that drilling will begin in the second half of 2025.

The Musuma prospect represents a new geological play, opening up previously untapped resources and significantly expanding the project’s resource base.

Strong Commercial and Infrastructure Advantages

Located near strategic infrastructure—including the Feruka Pipeline and national power grids—Cabora Bassa is well-positioned for regional exports and local supply. Plans are underway to:

• Conduct 3D seismic acquisition

• Perform well testing

• Drill appraisal wells to assess flow rates and gas composition

“We’re planning to demonstrate a proof-of-concept pilot project to produce gas from the asset,” Macmillan added, “laying the groundwork for full-scale development.”

Stakeholder Engagement and Long-Term Vision

The Invictus board visited Zimbabwe in April 2025, engaging:

• Government officials

• Traditional leaders

• Strategic partners, including the Mutapa Investment Fund

This community-centric approach reflects the company’s sustainable development goals and commitment to local stakeholder inclusion.

While external advisors introduced new clauses to the PPSA—slightly delaying its conclusion—all parties have reaffirmed their commitment to a fair and competitive agreement. Final legal sign-offs are expected in the coming weeks.

National and Regional Impacts

Professor Ncube stressed that the gas project is aligned with Zimbabwe’s goal to:

• Reduce reliance on imported energy

• Attract foreign direct investment

• Diversify its economy

The Cabora Bassa project has the potential to transform Zimbabwe into a regional energy hub, offering cleaner energy alternatives and job creation across sectors.

As Macmillan remarked during the Africa Energies Summit in London:

“The Cabora Bassa project is a flagship case of how new discoveries can drive economic growth while supporting cleaner energy solutions.”