Cybele Energy Becomes First African- and Female-Led Operator in Guyana’s Offshore Basin
Cybele Energy , a premier Sub-Saharan African exploration and production company has marked a historic breakthrough in the global energy arena, becoming the first African-led and female-led company to secure and operate an offshore exploration block in Guyana’s rapidly expanding petroleum basin. The company signed a Petroleum Agreement with the Government of Guyana for the Shallow-Water Block S7, accompanied by a US$17 million signing bonus and a full Petroleum Exploration Licence.
The block, located about 50 kilometres offshore, lies along the same proven hydrocarbon trend that delivered the prolific Liza discoveries. Early seismic data suggests strong geological continuity, with an estimated 400 million barrels of recoverable oil. Cybele Energy says it is prepared to advance exploration with strict adherence to safety, transparency, and international best practice.
The signing ceremony in Georgetown was a landmark moment for both Ghana and Guyana. CEO Beatrice Mensah-Tayui, now the first African woman to lead operations in Guyana’s basin, described the agreement as a milestone for women in leadership across the energy industry. She reaffirmed Cybele’s commitment to partnering closely with the Guyanese government and to supporting national development priorities.
Guyana’s Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, welcomed Cybele’s entry and emphasised the country’s expectations: high operational standards, strong local content participation, and meaningful community support. He noted that Guyana’s energy future depends on responsible partnerships that contribute to national growth while upholding transparency.
A Company Built for Global Expansion
Cybele Energy’s rise did not happen overnight. In its early years, the company focused on building a strong technical team and securing key assets in Ghana. Through targeted investments, rigorous exploration work, and disciplined operations, Cybele established itself as a credible player in the oil and gas space.
As the company matured, it moved beyond Ghana’s borders, steadily expanding its portfolio. It ventured into new basins and unconventional plays, adapting to shifting global markets and incorporating advanced technologies into its operations. This strategic diversification laid the foundation for Cybele’s successful entry into the Caribbean.
The award of Block S7 in Guyana in October 2023 marked a major turning point in the company’s international journey. It signalled Cybele’s readiness to compete on the world stage and strengthened its presence alongside global operators.
Leadership Driving the Vision
At the centre of Cybele’s growth is Founder and CEO Beatrice Mensah-Tayui, whose leadership has steered the company through technical challenges, investment decisions, and expansion into new regions. Her ability to marry strategic vision with operational discipline has been instrumental in Cybele’s rise and in positioning the company as a symbol of African excellence in a global industry.
Deepening Ghana–Guyana Energy Ties
Cybele’s expansion into Guyana adds new momentum to the growing economic relationship between the two nations, especially in energy. The company has pledged to invest in Guyanese talent, partner with local firms, and support training programmes that build national capacity.
Active across Sub-Saharan Africa, the United States, and Trinidad & Tobago, Cybele Energy says its mission remains consistent: responsibly develop resources while contributing meaningfully to national economies and local communities.
With the entry into Block S7, Cybele has not only taken a bold step in its global expansion but also set a powerful precedent for African operators and women leaders in the global energy landscape.
