Exxon Mobil has confirmed that its subsidiary Esso Exploration Angola has started production at a pair of new sites within the central African country.

A statement released by the firm reveals that oil is now being produced at the Saxi and Batuque fields, both of which are located within the Kizomba C project.

Once a third field, named Mondo, comes online within the coming weeks, it is expected that total production rate for the project will reach as much as 200,000 barrels of oil per day, with the total for the lifespan of the fields estimated at 600 million barrels.

At the same time, Esso Exploration Angola has reported that it has invested some $1.5 billion on the infrastructure needed to ensure the success of the new fields.

This includes putting into place logistical systems as well as the introduction of contracts for local companies and individuals aimed at providing support and training for Angolans working within the oil and gas industry.

Just this week, US energy firm Marathon Oil confirmed that it is looking to sell a 20 per cent stake in its Angolan oil field, with Chinese and Indian firms, as well as Brazil's Petrobras believed to be interested in a $2 billion deal.