A state-of-the-art oil performance center officially opened its doors on Tuesday in Luanda, marking a significant development for Angola’s oil industry.
The initiative, led by Internacional de Tecnologias (SLB), was inaugurated by Diamantino Azevedo, Angola’s Minister of Mineral Resources, Oil, and Gas.
The center’s primary objective is to enhance the efficiency of Angola’s oil sector, focusing particularly on the challenges faced by mature oil fields.
In his speech, Minister Azevedo emphasized the vital role the center would play in improving the performance of Angola’s oil industry, especially for mature fields, which present unique challenges for the country.
He praised the opening of the digital performance center, noting it would serve as an important tool for solving critical problems within the sector.
“This center is an invaluable asset in solving the issues faced by the sector and its stakeholders, equipped with cutting-edge technology and equipment,” said Azevedo.
Azevedo also highlighted the center’s role in training the next generation of oil and gas professionals, particularly young people in various specialized fields.
He also took the opportunity to congratulate SLB for bringing this center to Angola, which he considered a major step forward for the country’s oil and gas sector.
Alice Almeida, Secretary of State for Science, Technology, and Innovation, noted the growing importance of digital technologies in today’s world.
She also expressed how timely the inauguration was, as it aligns with the Angolan government’s commitment to fostering an ecosystem of innovation, scientific research, and technological development. These efforts are critical for driving economic diversification and improving the quality of life for citizens.
Miguel Baptista, the General Director of the Digital Performance Center, explained that the center would act as a collaboration hub, bringing together SLB, its clients, and other technological partners.
This platform will serve participants in the oil, gas, and energy sectors, offering innovative solutions in digital technology and artificial intelligence.
The goal is to identify production zones, analyze problems, and improve the operational performance of stakeholders across the industry.
Wallasse Pescarini, President of SLB for the Offshore Market, shared insights into why Angola was selected as the site for the first-ever digital performance center in Africa.
He cited the country’s need for innovation, particularly in tackling the complexities of mature fields, as the driving factor behind the decision.
The center will also connect Angolan experts with professionals from other SLB centers around the world, including locations in the United Arab Emirates, Brazil, the United States, Norway, and Mexico.
This initiative underscores Angola’s commitment to embracing new technologies and partnerships to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of its oil and gas industry.