VAALCO Energy, Inc. is an independent upstream oil & gas company headquartered in Houston, Texas. It was founded in 1985 and over time has focused its operations on international arenas, particularly offshore Africa, while also maintaining some interests in Canada and Egypt.
VAALCO’s operations center around acquisition, exploration, development, and production of crude oil, natural gas, and natural gas liquids. A key asset is its 58.8 % interest (under a production sharing contract) in the Etame Marin block offshore Gabon, which is a principal driver of its revenue base. In addition, it holds working interests in concessions in Egypt (Eastern and Western Deserts), and maintains production and exploration assets in western Canada (e.g. Cardium oil, Mannville gas) and a non-operated block offshore Equatorial Guinea.
What distinguishes VAALCO is its concentrated international footprint (especially in Africa) combined with operator roles in some blocks, and a diversified portfolio across multiple jurisdictions. Its mix of operated and non-operated holdings allows it to balance risk across geographies. Its reserve base, technical experience in offshore settings, and cross-jurisdictional presence uniquely position it among smaller independents.