U.K.-listed Aminex is nearing the start of a key testing program on an onshore gas discovery in the Rovuma Basin in southern Tanzania.

The independent said the Ntorya-1 gas discovery, first revealed earlier this year, was made in a 25 m (80 ft) gross Cretaceous sandstone interval between 2,663 m (8,736 ft) and 2,688 m (8,818 ft). This interval will now be tested to establish the level of production that can be obtained.

The testing equipment has been set up on site and the upper 3.5 m (11 ft) of net pay sand has been perforated. After an initial clean-up flow, during which gas was flowed to surface in order to clean the well, the well has been shut-in to install pressure gauges.

The main flow test is expected to start tomorrow (Friday, June 22) and to take approximately four days to complete. Results will be announced following completion of the flow test.

Participants in the Rovuma PSA are: Ndovu Resources Ltd (Aminex) 75% (operator) and Solo Oil (25%).