As part of his ongoing field visits to monitor production sites, motivate employees, and drive increased petroleum and natural gas output, Engineer Karim Badawi, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, conducted an inspection of the Badr-3 site operated by Badr Petroleum Company in the Western Desert.

At the outset of his visit, Minister Badawi reviewed the company’s safety and occupational health protocols, including evacuation drills. He emphasized the critical importance of halting operations immediately in the event of any potential hazards, ensuring incidents are safely managed before resuming work. “The safety of our employees, as the true asset of the petroleum sector, remains our top priority,” he stated.

The minister commended the employees and partners, Cheiron and Capricorn, for their dedication and contributions. Reflecting on Badr Petroleum Company’s 40-year legacy, he expressed pride in its accomplishments, which have significantly bolstered Egypt’s economy. He stressed the importance of continuing these successes, noting the company’s pivotal role in executing the Ministry’s six strategic pillars, particularly ensuring the reliable supply of petroleum products and natural gas to meet daily citizen needs. He underscored that increasing domestic production through efficient reservoir management and intensified exploration programs remains a cornerstone of the Ministry’s strategy.

Minister Badawi assured attendees that the Ministry, along with the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC) and the Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company (EGAS), is committed to addressing any challenges that could impact operations, reaffirming, “Every additional barrel of oil produced directly benefits both our citizens and the national economy.”

Company Milestones

During the visit, Engineer Ashraf Abdel Gawad, Chairman of Badr Petroleum Company, provided an overview of the company’s achievements over its 40-year history. He reported a total cumulative production of approximately 1.3 billion barrels of oil equivalent, with current recoverable reserves estimated at 44 million barrels of oil and condensates. Abdel Gawad highlighted that the company’s widespread facilities serve as vital hubs for processing gas and oil from other operators in the Western Desert.

He also outlined the company’s forward-looking strategy, which focuses on intensifying drilling and exploration efforts using cutting-edge technology to counter the natural decline in well productivity. “We are actively evaluating unconventional opportunities, leveraging advanced technologies to optimize reservoir potential and maximize output,” Abdel Gawad explained.

Site Inspections and Technology

Minister Badawi inspected the control room of the Badr Processing Facility, which comprises one oil processing unit and three natural gas processing units. The facility boasts a production capacity of up to 30,000 barrels of crude oil per day and a maximum gas output of 340 million cubic feet per day.

The minister also visited the EDC-77 drilling rig, operated by the Egyptian Drilling Company, which is currently drilling a new development well in the Badr-16 area. He engaged directly with the rig crew to assess drilling progress and emphasized the importance of adhering to stringent safety standards. “Teamwork and a collaborative spirit are essential for achieving higher production targets,” he noted, extending his gratitude to the crew for their continuous efforts and urging them to convey his appreciation to their colleagues across shifts.

“Your dedication is instrumental in overcoming challenges and maximizing production to support our national economy,” the minister added, encouraging the team to maintain their commitment to excellence.

Accompanying Delegation

The minister was accompanied by Engineer Salah Abdel Karim, CEO of the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC); Engineer Yass Mohamed, Chairman of the Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company (EGAS); Geologist Alaa El-Batal, First Undersecretary for Safety, Environment, and Energy Efficiency; Engineer Ihab Ragab, First Undersecretary for Production; Engineer Moataz Atef, Undersecretary for the Minister’s Office and Technical Bureau, and the Ministry’s spokesperson; and Engineer Ihab Gerges, Representative of Cheiron.