By Baba Aidara – Investigative Journalist
In recent days, former Gambian President Yahya Jammeh has resurfaced with explosive claims, accusing the new Senegalese government of “stealing Gambian oil.” The statement, though lacking any credible evidence, has sparked debate and fueled speculation among some in the region.
But how plausible is such a claim in today’s geopolitical and industrial reality?
1. No Proven Oil Discovery in The Gambia
To date, there has been no confirmed commercial oil discovery in Gambian waters. While hopes and exploratory drilling have existed, no oil company has publicly declared a viable field with recoverable reserves. Exploration blocks have changed hands, yes, but without production. It’s hard to steal what doesn’t yet exist.
2. The Oil Industry Is Highly Regulated and Transparent
Modern oil exploration and production involve massive financial investment, satellite monitoring, legal contracts, and international partnerships. Every barrel drilled is accounted for. Companies listed on stock exchanges — the kinds that drill in West Africa — are required to disclose their operations in detail to investors and regulators. Any unauthorized activity would be swiftly exposed.
3. No Oil Company Risks Millions for a Myth
Oil exploration is one of the riskiest and costliest ventures in the world. Companies spend tens, sometimes hundreds of millions of dollars just to drill a single exploratory well. Why would any serious company risk international lawsuits, sanctions, and reputational ruin by “stealing” oil that isn’t even proven to exist?
4. Political Rhetoric vs. Economic Reality
The truth is that statements like Jammeh’s serve a political purpose: to stoke suspicion and distrust at a time when he remains isolated from domestic politics. Such rhetoric may appeal to those unfamiliar with the workings of the global energy sector, but it does a disservice to the public discourse in both The Gambia and Senegal.
Instead of chasing ghosts, let us focus on real issues: transparent resource management, responsible exploration, regional cooperation, and investment in future potential, especially as Senegambia looks toward energy self-sufficiency and economic development.
In the end, oil may one day be discovered in The Gambia. If and when that happens, both nations must ensure it benefits their people, not political agendas or conspiracy theories.
Until then, let’s keep our feet on the ground and our facts straight.
Sources:
[1] FAR Ltd. exploration reports (2018–2019) – www.far.com.au
[2] Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) – www.eiti.org
[3] World Bank/ESMAP reports on upstream risk in Africa
[4] Africa Oil Week, panel reports 2023
The post The Myth of Stolen Oil: Facts Over Fiction in Senegambia appeared first on The Alkamba Times.
