1887
Volume 24, Issue 1
  • ISSN: 1354-0793
  • E-ISSN:

Abstract

The East African margin has a complex structure due to multiple phases of rifting with different stretching directions. The main phase of rifting leading to Indian Ocean opening lasted from the Late Pliensbachian to the Bajocian ( 183 – 170 Ma). This occurred during impingement of the Bouvet hotspot which weakened the lithosphere sufficiently to allow continental break-up. Thick salt and marine shales were deposited during the Toarcian in the Majunga, Ambilobe and Mandawa basins and the onshore Ogaden Basin; marking the onset of the Indian Ocean marine incursion, when good quality oil-prone source rocks were deposited at this time. The recent giant gas discoveries in Tanzania and Mozambique are believed to be sourced from overmature Jurassic or, possibly, deeper Permian age Karoo shales. The margin from the Lamu Basin in the north to the Zambesi Delta in the south is covered by thick Tertiary and Cretaceous sediment derived from the East African rift shoulders, and Lower Jurassic source rocks are predicted to be in the gas window along most of the margin. However, the margins in South Africa, south Mozambique, northern Somalia and Madagascar are less deeply buried, and have better oil potential.

The large Tsimimo and Bemolanga tar sand deposits and the recent announcement of an oil rim in the Inhasorro Field indicate that there are good oil-prone source rocks in the Karoo rifts and in the Albian Domo shales; and the search for oil continues with companies exploring in areas where Jurassic source rocks may be less deeply buried, and/or potential Albian–Turonian-aged source rocks are sufficiently buried to generate oil.

Figures S1–S3 are available at: https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.3894931

Loading

Article metrics loading...

/content/journals/10.1144/petgeo2017-028
2017-12-09
2024-04-19
Loading full text...

Full text loading...

References

  1. Afren
    . 2014. Half-yearly Results Presentation. Afren, London[last accessed April 2015].
    [Google Scholar]
  2. Ali, M.Y.
    2006. Hydrocarbon potential of Somaliland. First Break, 24, 49–54.
    [Google Scholar]
  3. Al Thour, K.A.
    , 1997. Facies sequences of the Middle–Upper Jurassic carbonate platform (Amran Group) in the Sana'a region, Republic of Yemen. Marine and Petroleum Geology, 14, 643–660.
    [Google Scholar]
  4. Aminex plc
    . 2015. Annual General Meeting Presentation, 20 May 2015, Dublin. Aminex plc, London, http://www.aminex-plc.com/FCKuploads/file/presentations/150520_%20AGM_Presentation_May2015.pdf[last accessed on 2 February 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  5. Amsas Consulting Pty Ltd
    . 2014. Amsas Coriole-Afogoye Block Farm-in Opportunity. Amsas Consulting Pty Ltd , Preston, Victoria, Australia, http://www.amsasconsulting.com/Amsa%20Consulting%20%20Block%20Potential_15OCT2014.pdf[last accessed on 17 May 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  6. Baker, J.A., Snee, L. & Menzies, M.
    1996. A brief Oligocene period of flood volcanism in Yemen: implications for duration and rate of continental flood volcanism at the Afro-Arabian triple junction. Earth and Planetary Science Letters, 138, 39–55.
    [Google Scholar]
  7. Bassias, Y. & Leclaire, L.
    1990. Crystalline basement and intraplate Mesozoic magmatism of the Davie Fracture Zone. Neues Jaarbuch fur Geologie und Palaontologie Monatshefte, 2, 67–90.
    [Google Scholar]
  8. Bardintzeff, J.M., Bonin, B. & Rasamimanana, G.
    2001. The Cretaceous Morondava volcanic province (West Madagascar): mineralogical, petrological and geochemical aspects. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 32, 299–316.
    [Google Scholar]
  9. Barnes, S.U.
    1976. Geology and oil prospects of Somalia, East Africa. AAPG Bulletin, 60, 389–413.
    [Google Scholar]
  10. Battacharya, M. & Duval, G.
    2016. A snapshot of the geotectonics and petroleum geology of the Durban and Zululand Basins, offshore South Africa. First Break, 34, 45–51, http://www.cgg.com/technicalDocuments/cggv_0000027482.pdf[last accessed on 3 February 2017]
    [Google Scholar]
  11. Beckering Vinckers, J.
    2007. Republic of South Africa 2007. Licence Round, Area D Algoa and Gamtoos Basins. Petro SA, Cape Town, South Africa.
    [Google Scholar]
  12. Beckering Vinckers, J. & Davids, S.
    2008. Exploration opportunities in the Tugela area, offshore the South African east coast. Poster presented at the AAPG African Energy Global Impact Meeting , 28–29 October 2008, Cape Town.
    [Google Scholar]
  13. Bendias, D., Contreras, F., Palermo, D., Luciani, A., Catanzaro, M., Benvenuti, C. & Maioli, F.
    2017. Sedimentology and architecture of deepwater turbidite systems offshore Mozambique-from concept to application. PESGB/HGS 16th African E & P Conference, 31 August–1 September 2017, London, Abstract Volume, 55–56.
    [Google Scholar]
  14. Besairie, H.
    1972. Geologie de Madagascar I: Les terrains sedimentaires. Annales Geologique Madagascar, 35, 1–463.
    [Google Scholar]
  15. Boast, J. & Nairn, A.E.M.
    1982. An outline of the geology of Madagascar. In: Nairn, A.E.M. & Stehli, F.G. (eds) The Ocean Basins and Margins: Volume 6. The Indian Ocean. Plenum Press, New York, 649–696.
    [Google Scholar]
  16. Boote, D.R.D. & Matchette-Downes, C.
    2009. Extinct and near extinct petroleum systems of the East African coastal basins. Presented at the 8th PESGB/HGS Conference on African E & P. Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre , 9–10 September 2009, London.
    [Google Scholar]
  17. Bosellini, A.
    1986. East Africa continental margins. Geology, 14, 76–78.
    [Google Scholar]
  18. 1989. The continental margins of Somalia: their structural evolution and sequence stratigraphy. Memorie di Scienze Geologiche gia Memorie degli Instituti di Geologia e Mineralogia dell'Universita di Padova, 16, 373–458.
    [Google Scholar]
  19. 1992. The continental margins of Somalia: structural evolution and sequence stratigraphy. In: Watkins, J.S., Zhiqiang, F. & McMillen, K.J. (eds) Geology and Geophysics of Continental Margins. American Association of Petroleum Geologists, Memoirs, 53, 185–205.
    [Google Scholar]
  20. Bosworth, W. & Morley, C.K.
    1994. Structural and stratigraphic evolution of the Anza Rift, Kenya. Tectonophysics, 236, 93–115.
    [Google Scholar]
  21. Branquinho, J.
    2008. Mozambique Third License Round, exploration opportunities Mozambique Basin. Presented at the AAPG Annual Convention 2008 , 20–23 April 2008, San Antonio, Texas, USA, http://www.internationalpavilion.com/Mozambique.html
    [Google Scholar]
  22. Brown, M.
    2013. Exploration: Driving Value. BG Group Presentation, September 2013, no longer available online.
    [Google Scholar]
  23. Burke, K. & Gunnell, Y.
    2008. The African Erosion Surface: A Continental-Scale Synthesis of Geomorphology, Tectonics, and Environmental Change over the Past 180 Million Years. Geological Society of America Memoirs, 201.
    [Google Scholar]
  24. Calais, E., Ebinger, C., Hartnady, C. & Nocquet, J.M.
    2006. Kinematics of the East African Rift form GPS and earthquake slip vector data. In: Yirgu, G., Ebinger, C.J. & Maguire, P.K.H. (eds) The Afar Volcanic Province within the East African Rift System. Geological Society, London, Special Publications, 259, 9–22, https://doi.org/10.1144/GSL.SP.2006.259.01.03
    [Google Scholar]
  25. Catuneanu, O., Wopfner, H., Eriksson, P.G., Cairncross, B., Rubidge, B.S., Smith, R.M.H. & Hancox, P.J.
    2005. The Karoo basins of south-central Africa. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 43, 211–253.
    [Google Scholar]
  26. Chavez Gomez, S.
    2000. Interpretation of the IGRF Corrected Aeromagnetic Map of Zimbabwe with Superimposed Geological Contacts. Unpublished report, Department of Earth Resources Surveys. International Institute for Aerospace Survey and Earth Sciences (ITC), Delft, The Netherlands.
    [Google Scholar]
  27. Chorowicz, J.
    2005. The East African rift system. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 43, 379–410.
    [Google Scholar]
  28. Cochran, J.R.
    1988. Somali Basin, Chain Ridge, and origin of the Northern Somali Basin gravity and geoid low. Journal of Geophysical Research, 93B, 11985–12008.
    [Google Scholar]
  29. Collier, J.S., Sansom, V., Ishizuka, O., Taylor, R.N., Minshull, T.A. & Whitmarsh, R.B.
    2008. Age of Seychelles–India break-up. Earth and Planetary Science Letters, 272, 264–277.
    [Google Scholar]
  30. Cove Energy plc
    . 2011. PowerPoint presentation, December 2011. Cove Energy plc, London, http://www.cove-energy.com/communicraft-cms-system/uploads/Presentation_December_2011_-_Update_8_December.pdf; no longer at this website but can be accessed at the Way Back machine at https://archive.org/web
  31. Craven, J.
    2015. Comoros the sleeping giant. Presented at the 22nd Africa Oil Week , 26–30 October 2015, Global Pacific and Partners Cape Town 2015, http://www.discover-exploration.com/company-presentations/Africa_Oil_Week_2015.pdf[last accessed 17 May 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  32. Danforth, A., Henry, S., Komba, K., Nuttal, P. & Venkatraman, S.
    2010. Understanding the evolution of the East African extensional/transform margin in Tanzania and Kenya, using deep PSDM seismic images. Abstract presented at the 9th PESGB/HGS Conference on Africa E & P – Africa: A Multi-faceted Promise , 8–9 September 2010, Houston, Texas, USA.
    [Google Scholar]
  33. Danforth, A., Granath, J.W., Gross, J.S., Horn, B.W., McDonough, K.-J. & Sterne, E.K.
    2012. Deepwater fans across a transform margin, offshore East Africa. GEO ExPro, 9, 74–78.
    [Google Scholar]
  34. Davis, J.K., Lawver, L.A., Norton, I.O. & Gahagan, L.
    2016. New Somali Basin magnetic anomalies and a plate model for the early Indian Ocean. Gondwana Research, 34, 16–28.
    [Google Scholar]
  35. Davison, I. & Cunha, T.A.
    2017. Allochthonous salt sheet growth: thermal implications for source rock maturation in the deepwater Burgos Basin and Perdido Fold Belt in Mexico. Interpretation, 5, T11–T21.
    [Google Scholar]
  36. Davison, I. & Steel, I.
    2016. How do seaward dipping reflectors form? Evidence form the Lebombo Monocline, SE Africa and seismic data in the South Atlantic. Abstract presented at the Joint Meeting Annual Meeting on Africa, Houston Geological Society and the Petroleum Exploration Society of Great Britain , 12–14 September 2016, Houston, Texas, USA.
    [Google Scholar]
  37. Davison, I., O Beirne, E. & Steel, I.
    2015. New gravity data helps define the Indian Ocean spreading ridge and crustal boundaries offshore East Africa. 7th East African Petroleum Conference and Exhibition, 4–6 March, Kigali, Rwanda, Abstracts Volume.
    [Google Scholar]
  38. De Buyl, M. & Flores, G.
    1986. The Southern Mozambique Basin: The most promising hydrocarbon province offshore East Africa. In: Halbouty, M.T. (ed.) Future Petroleum Provinces of the World. American Association of Petroleum Geologists, Memoirs, 40, 399–425.
    [Google Scholar]
  39. DSDP
    . 1989. Archive of Core and Site/Hole Data and Photographs from the Deep-Sea Drilling Project (DSDP). NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, https://doi.org/10.7289/V54M92G2[last accessed 2 February 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  40. Dina, A.
    1996. Geologie und Jurassische Palynologie des sudlichen Morondava Beckens, Madagascar [Geology and Jurassic Palynology Southern Union Morondava-Beckens, Madagascar]. PhD thesis, TU Berlin, Germany.
    [Google Scholar]
  41. Duncan, R.A. & Pyle, D.G.
    1988. Rapid eruption of the Deccan flood basalts at the Cretaceous/Tertiary boundary. Nature, 333, 841–843, https://doi.org/10.1038/333841a0
    [Google Scholar]
  42. Duncan, R.A., Hooper, P.R., Rehacek, J., Marsh, J.S. & Duncan, A.R.
    1997. The timing and duration of the Karoo igneous event, southern Gondwana. Journal of Geophysical Research, 102, 18127–18138.
    [Google Scholar]
  43. Eagles, G.D. & Hoang, H.H.
    2014. Cretaceous to present kinematics of the Indian, African and Seychelles Plates. Geophysical Journal International, 196, 1–14.
    [Google Scholar]
  44. Eagles, G. & König, M.
    2008. A model of plate kinematics in Gondwana break up. Geophysical Journal International, 173, 703–717.
    [Google Scholar]
  45. Emerick, C.M. & Duncan, R.A.
    1982. Age progressive volcanism in the Comores Archipelago, western Indian Ocean and implications for Somali plate tectonics. Earth and Planetary Science Letters, 60, 415–428.
    [Google Scholar]
  46. 1983. Errata. Earth and Planetary Science Letters, 62, 439.
    [Google Scholar]
  47. Francis, M., Milne, G., Kornpihl, K., Tewari, S., Rathee, D., Barlass, D. & Broadbent, K.
    2017. Petroleum systems of the deepwater Mozambique Basin. First Break, 35, 59–64.
    [Google Scholar]
  48. Franke, D., Jokat, W. et al.
    2015. The offshore East African Rift system: structural framework at the toe of a juvenile rift. Tectonics, 34, 2086–2104, https://doi.org/10.1002/2015TC003922
    [Google Scholar]
  49. Franklin, B., Hill, C. et al.
    2015. A reappraisal of the tectonic evolution and structure of the East African margin, with specific reference to the Mozambique coastal plains. Abstract presented at the AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition , 31 May–3 June 2015, Denver, Colorado, USA.
    [Google Scholar]
  50. Ganerød, M., Torsvik, T.H. et al.
    2011. Palaeoposition of the Seychelles microcontinent in relation to the Deccan Traps and the Plume Generation Zone in Late Cretaceous–Early Palaeogene time. In: Van Hinsbergen, D.J.J., Buiter, S.J.H., Torsvik, T.H., Gaina, C., Webb, S.J. (eds) The Formation And Evolution of Africa: A Synopsis of 3.8 Ga of Earth History . Geological Society, London, Special Publications, 357, 229–252, https://doi.org/10.1144/SP357.12
    [Google Scholar]
  51. Geiger, M., Clark, D.N. & Mette, W.
    2004. Reappraisal of the timing of the break-up of Gondwana based on sedimentological and seismic evidence from the Morondava Basin Madagascar. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 38, 363–381.
    [Google Scholar]
  52. Geological Survey of Botswana
    . 1978. Synoptic Interpretation Maps of the Reconnaissance Magnetic Survey of Botswana. Terra Surveys Ltd, Lobatse, Botswana.
    [Google Scholar]
  53. Goutorbe, B., Lucazeau, F. & Bonneville, A.
    2008. The thermal regime of South African continental margins. Earth and Planetary Science Letters, 267, 256–265.
    [Google Scholar]
  54. Higgins, R. & Sofield, M.
    2011. Ophir East Africa Transform Margin – The view from Tanzania and Madagascar. Presented at the 10th HGS-PESGB Conference , 7–8 September 2011, London.
    [Google Scholar]
  55. Hinze, K. & Krause, W.
    1982. The continental margin of Queen Maud Land, Antarctica: seismic sequences, structural elements, and geological development. Geologische Jahrbuch Riehe, E, E23, 17–41.
    [Google Scholar]
  56. Hodgson, N.
    2016. Somalia awakens as East Africa's oil province. Offshore Magazine, 76, 15 December 2016, http://www.offshore-mag.com/articles/print/volume-76/issue-12/geology-geophysics/somalia-awakens-as-east-africa-s-oil-province.html[last accessed 16 May 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  57. Hudson, W.
    2011. The geological evolution of the Petroleum Prospective Mandawa Basin Southern Coastal Tanzania. PhD thesis, Trinity College, University of Dublin, Ireland.
    [Google Scholar]
  58. Impact Oil & Gas Ltd
    . 2014. Exploration activities in South and West Africa. Presented at the 21st Africa Oil Week , 4–7 November 2014.
    [Google Scholar]
  59. INP Instituto Nacional de Petroleos Mozambique
    . 2011. Mozambique Basin Stratigraphy and Hydrocarbon Prospectivity, AAPG 2011 Annual Convention, Houston Texas, 10–13 April 2011.
    [Google Scholar]
  60. . 2014. Mozambique Fifth Licence Round Presentation, 23 October 2014, Hilton Hotel, London[last accessed in December 2014].
    [Google Scholar]
  61. Jourdan, F., Feraud, G. et al.
    2004. The Karoo triple junction questioned: evidence from 40Ar/39Ar Jurassic and Proterozoïc ages and geochemistry of the Okavango giant dyke swarm (Botswana). Earth and Planetary Science Letters, 222, 989–1006.
    [Google Scholar]
  62. Kagya, M.L.N.
    1996. Geochemical characterization of the Triassic petroleum source rock in the Mandawa Basin, Tanzania. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 5, 73–88.
    [Google Scholar]
  63. Kearns, H., Berryman, J., Hodgson, N. & Rodriguez, K.
    2016. Somalia's Exploration Journey. GEO ExPro, 13, 53–54.
    [Google Scholar]
  64. Kearns, H., Paton, D., Hodgson, N., Rodriguez, K. & Hussein, A.A.
    2017. Offshore Somalia: defining crustal type and its implications for prospectivity. PESGB/HGS 16th African E & P Conference, 31 August–1 September 2017, London, Abstract Volume, 44–45.
    [Google Scholar]
  65. Kejato, K.
    2003. The geology and petroleum potential of Kenya. Presentation and extended abstract at the East Africa Petroleum Geology Conference , 5–7 March 2003, Nairobi, Kenya.
    [Google Scholar]
  66. Key, R.M., Smith, R.A., Smelror, M., Powell, J.H., Thorsnes, T., Njange, F., Saether, O.M. & Zandamela, E.B.
    2008. Revised lithostratigraphy of the Mesozoic–Cenozoic succession of the onshore Rovuma basin, northern coastal Mozambique. South African Journal of Geology, 111, 89–108.
    [Google Scholar]
  67. Klausen, M.B.
    2009. The Lebombo monocline and associated feeder dyke swarm: diagnostic of a successful and highly volcanic rifted margin. Tectonophysics, 468, 42–62.
    [Google Scholar]
  68. Kristoffersen, Y., Hofstede, C., Diez, A., Blenkner, R., Lambrecht, A., Mayer, C. & Eisen, O.
    2014. Reassembling Gondwana: A new high quality constraint from vibroseis exploration of the sub-ice shelf geology of the East Antarctic continental margin. Journal of Geophysical Research: Solid Earth, 119, 9171–9182, https://doi.org/10.1002/2014JB011479
    [Google Scholar]
  69. Law, C.
    2011. Northern Mozambique: True ‘wildcat’ exploration in East Africa. AAPG Search and Discovery Article 110157 presented at the AAPG Annual Convention and Exhibition , 10–13 April 2011, Houston, Texas, USA.
    [Google Scholar]
  70. Le Gall, B., Thshoso, G. et al.
    2002. 40Ar/39Ar geochronology and structural data from the giant Okovango and related mafic dyke swarms, Karoo igneous province, northern Botswana. Earth and Planetary Science Letters, 202, 595–606.
    [Google Scholar]
  71. Le Gall, B., Gomotsang, T. et al.
    2005. The Okavango giant mafic dyke swarm (NE Botswana): its structural significance within the Karoo Large Igneous Province. Journal of Structural Geology, 27, 2234–2255.
    [Google Scholar]
  72. Leinweber, V.T., Klingelhoefer, F. et al.
    2013. The crustal structure of the Central Mozambique continental margin-wide angle seismic, gravity and magnetic study in the Mozambique Channel, Eastern Africa. Tectonophysics, 599, 170–196.
    [Google Scholar]
  73. Loegring, M.J. & Milkov, A.V.
    2017. Geochemistry of petroleum gases and liquids form the Inhassoro, Pande and Termqane fields onshore Mozambique. Geosciences, 7, 33, www.mdpi.com/journal/geosciences
    [Google Scholar]
  74. Mabote, A.
    2008. Mozambique Third License Round, Exploration Opportunities Mozambique Basin. INP Instituto Nacional de Petroléo. Exhibition flyer distributed at the AAPG Annual Convention 2008 , 20–23 April 2008, San Antonio, Texas, USA.
    [Google Scholar]
  75. Macgregor, D.
    2015. History of the development of the East African Rift System: A series of interpreted maps through time. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 101, 232–252.
    [Google Scholar]
  76. Madagascar Oil
    . 2015. Madagascar Oil Company Presentation, March 2015, http://madagascaroil.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/Madagascar%20Oil%20Investor%20Presentation%20final%20GS9%20General%20Disclaimer%20UK.pdf[last accessed 9 February 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  77. Maende, A. & Mpanju, F.
    2003. Geochemistry and source rock potential of East African passive margin. Presented at the East African Petroleum Conference (EAPC 2003) , 5 March 2003, Nairobi Kenya.
    [Google Scholar]
  78. Mahanjane, E.S.
    2014. The Davie Fracture Zone and adjacent basins in the offshore Mozambique Margin—A new insights for the hydrocarbon potential. Marine and Petroleum Geology, 57, 561–571.
    [Google Scholar]
  79. Mahanjane, E.S. & FrankeD.
    2014. The Rovuma Delta deep-water fold-and-thrust belt, offshore Mozambique. Tectonophysics, 614, 91–99.
    [Google Scholar]
  80. Mahanjane, E.S., Franke, D., Lutz, R., Winsemann, J., Ehrhardt, A., Berglar, K. & Reichert, C.
    2014. Maturity and petroleum systems modelling in the offshore Zambezi Delta depression and Angoche Basin, northern Mozambique. Journal of Petroleum Geology, 37, 329–348.
    [Google Scholar]
  81. Matchette-Downes, C.
    2003. Multiple Oil-prone Source Horizons in Coastal Tanzania. Publicity brochure. JEBCO Seismic (UK) Ltd, West Malling, Kent, UK.
    [Google Scholar]
  82. 2006a. Petroleum Potential of the Morondava Basin. Powerpoint presentation at the Madagascar Promotional Meeting , 25 May 2006, Houston, Texas, USA.
    [Google Scholar]
  83. 2006b. The Seychelles Petroleum System in the Light of New Data. Revision II with SWC Oil Extract Data. Downloaded from http://petroseychelles.com/images/Seychelles%20in%20light%20of%20new%20data%20final.pdf[last accessed on 9 February 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  84. 2010. Finding hydrocarbons in East Africa and the western Indian Ocean. Presented at the Finding Petroleum Conference , 21–22 January 2010, London.
    [Google Scholar]
  85. Matthews, A., Lawrence, S., Mamad, A.V. & Fortes, G.
    2001. Africa in perspective: Mozambique basin may have bright future under new geological interpretations. Oil & Gas Journal, 99, 70–75.
    [Google Scholar]
  86. McDonough, K.-J., Qayyum, F., Bouanga, E., Rimaila, K., Romanova, V. & Horn, B.
    2016. Regional stratigraphic differentiation of deepwater fan and channel geometries, offshore Tanzania and Mozambique: size matters. AAPG Search and Discovery Article 30442 presented at the AAPG 2015 Annual Convention and Exhibition , 31 May–3 June 2015, Denver, Colorado, USA.
    [Google Scholar]
  87. Mead, J.G.
    1975. A fossil beaked whale (Cretacea ziphiidae) from the Miocene of Kenya. Journal of Paleontology, 49, 745–751.
    [Google Scholar]
  88. Mekonnen, T. M.
    2004. Interpretation and geodatabase of dykes using aeromagnetic data of Zimbabwe and Mozambique. MSc thesis, International Institute for GeoInformation Science and Earth Observation, Enschede, The Netherlands.
    [Google Scholar]
  89. Mette, W.
    2004. Middle to Upper Jurassic sedimentary sequences and marine biota of the early Indian Ocean (Southwest Madagascar): some biostratigraphy, palaeoecologic and palaeobiogeographic conclusions. Journal of African Earth Science, 38, 331–342.
    [Google Scholar]
  90. Morley, C.K., Bosworth, W. et al.
    1999. Geology and geophysics of the Anza Graben. In: Morley, C.K. (ed.) Geoscience of Rift Systems – Evolution of East Africa. American Association of Petroleum Geologists, Studies in Geology, 44, 67–90.
    [Google Scholar]
  91. Morrison, K.
    2011. Seychelles: New insights revealed. Unlocking the exploration potential of the Seychelles. GEO ExPro, 8, 58–62.
    [Google Scholar]
  92. Mougenot, D., Recq, M., Virlogeux, P. & Lepvrier, C.
    1986. Seaward extension of the East African Rift. Nature, 321, 599–603.
    [Google Scholar]
  93. Mueller, C.O., Jokat, W. & Schreckenberger, B.
    2016. The crustal structure of Beira High, central Mozambique-combined investigation of wide-angle seismic potential field data. Tectonophysics, 683, 233–254.
    [Google Scholar]
  94. Mulibo, G.D. & Nyblade, A.A.
    2016. The seismotectonics of Southeastern Tanzania: Implications for propagation of the eastern branch of the East African Rift system. Tectonophysics, 674, 20–30.
    [Google Scholar]
  95. Nelson, P.
    2006. Tanzania: The Tanga Block, Possible Eocene Reefs Offshore the City of Tanga. Unpublished Report, October 2006. Petrodel Resources Ltd, Douglas, Isle of Man, UK.
    [Google Scholar]
  96. Norton, I.O. & Sclater, J.G.
    1979. A model for the evolution of the Indian Ocean and the break-up of Gondwanaland. Journal of Geophysical Research, 84, 6803–6630.
    [Google Scholar]
  97. Nougier, J., Cantagrel, J.M. & Karche, J.P.
    1986. The Comores archipelago in the Western Indian Ocean: volcanology, geochronology and geodynamic setting. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 5, 135–145.
    [Google Scholar]
  98. Nyagah, K.
    1995. Stratigraphy, depositional history and environments of deposition of the Cretaceous through Tertiary strata in the Lamu Basin, southeast Kenya and implications for reservoirs for hydrocarbon exploration. Sedimentary Geology, 96, 43–71.
    [Google Scholar]
  99. Offshore Energy
    . 2013. BG Group Ups Tanzania Gas Reserves Estimates, http://www.offshoreenergytoday.com/bg-group-ups-tanzania-gas-reserves-estimates/[last accessed 15 May 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  100. Ophir Energy
    . 2016. Presentation Half Year Results 15th September 2016. Ophir Energy, London, https://cdn-ophir-energy.azureedge.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Half-Year-2016-Results-Presentation-FINAL.pdf[last accessed 3 February 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  101. Ouedraogo, N.
    2012. Sub-Saharan Africa: Unconventional oil resources. IAEE Energy Forum, Fourth Quarter 2012, 34–36[last accessed 16 May 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  102. Owen-Smith, T.M., Ashwal, L.D., Torsvik, T.H., Ganerod, M., Nebel, O., Webb, S.J. & Werner, S.C.
    2013. Seychelles alkaline suite records the culmination of Deccan Traps continental flood volcanism. Lithos, 182–183, 33–37.
    [Google Scholar]
  103. Palermo, D., Galbiati, M., Famiglietti, M., Marchesini, M., Mezzapesa, D. & Fonnesu, F.
    2014. Insights into a new super-giant gas field-sedimentology and reservoir modeling of the Coral Reservoir Complex, Offshore Northern Mozambique. Presented at the Offshore Technology Conference – Asia, 25–28 March 2014, Kula Lumpur, Malaysia, https://doi.org/10.4043/24907-MS
    [Google Scholar]
  104. Pancontinental Oil & Gas
    . 2014. Annual General Meeting Presentation, 28 November 2014. Pancontinental Oil & Gas, West Perth, Australia[last accessed 3 February 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  105. Papini, M. & Benvenuti, M.
    2008. The Toarcian–Bathonian succession of the Antisiranana Basin (NW Madagascar): facies analysis and tectonic–sedimentary history in the development of the East Africa-Madagascar conjugate margins. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 51, 21–38.
    [Google Scholar]
  106. Parsons, W. & Nilsen, T.
    2012. The coastal exploration of the Lower Lamu Basin and Pemba Trough from short and long offset 2D marine seismic and potential fields data. Presented at the 11th HGS/PESGB International Conference on African E&P ‘Africa: Continent of Discoveries’ , 11–12 September 2012, Houston, Texas, USA.
    [Google Scholar]
  107. Parsons, W., McCarthy, A. & Nilsen, T.
    2013. The coastal exploration potential of the Lower Lamu Basin and Pemba Trough from short and long offset 2D marine seismic and potential fields data. EAPCE ‘13 Conference, 5–8 February 2013, Tanzania, 105(CD-ROM articles).
    [Google Scholar]
  108. Paton, D.A.
    2006. Influence of crustal heterogeneity on normal fault dimensions and evolution: southern South Africa extensional system. Journal of Structural Geology, 28, 868–886.
    [Google Scholar]
  109. Petroleum Agency South Africa
    . 2008. South African Petroleum Exploration and Production Activities. Petroleum Agency South Africa, Cape Town, South Africa. Publicity brochure distributed at the 2008 AAPG International Conference and Exhibition,26–29 October 2008, Cape Town, South Africa.
    [Google Scholar]
  110. PetroSeychelles
    . 2013. Seychelles Petroleum Potential and Exploration Opportunities, Technical Atlas (CD ROM), http://petroseychelles.com/images/pdfs/Petroseychelles%20Technical%20Atlas.pdf[last accessed 9 Febuary 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  111. Phethean, J.J.J., Kalnins, L.M., van Hunen, J., Biffi, P.G., Davies, R.J. & McCaffrey, K.J.W.
    2016. Madagascar's escape from Africa: A high-resolution plate reconstruction for the Western Somali Basin and implications for supercontinent dispersal. Geochemistry, Geophysics, Geosystems, 17, 5036–5055, https://doi.org/10.1002/2016GC006624
    [Google Scholar]
  112. Piccoli, G., Boccaletti, M., Angelucci, A., Robba, E., Arush, M.A. & Cabdulqadir, M.M.
    1986. Geological history of Central and Southern Somalia since the Triassic. Memorie Società Geologica Italiana, 31, 415–425.
    [Google Scholar]
  113. PuraVida Energy
    . 2015. Investor Presentation, March 2017. PuraVida Energy, Perth, Australia, http://www.puravidaenergy.com.au/media/media/20150319_Investor_Presentation_1.pdf[last accessed 9 February 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  114. Quinton, J. & Copestake, P.
    2006. Mesozoic rift basins in Tanzania: Stratigraphic and structural development and petroleum potential. Poster and abstract presented at the 5th PESGB/HGS African Conference – Africa: The Elephants of the Future , 12–13 September 2006, London.
    [Google Scholar]
  115. Razafindrazaka, Y., Randriamananjara, T., Pique, A., Thouin, C., Laville, E., Malod, J. & Rehault, J.-P.
    1999. Late Paleozoic and Mesozoic extension and sedimentation in the Majunga Basin (northwestern Madagascar). Journal of African Earth Sciences, 28, 949–959.
    [Google Scholar]
  116. Reeves, C.
    2000. The geophysical mapping of Mesozoic dyke swarms in southern Africa and their origin in the disruption of Gondwana. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 30, 499–513.
    [Google Scholar]
  117. Reeves, C.V.
    2014. The position of Madagascar with Gondwana and its movements during Gondwana dispersal. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 94, 45–57.
    [Google Scholar]
  118. 2016. Gondwana dispersal movie CR16ABGE. Downloadable fromwww.reeves.nl/gondwana [last accessed 8 February 2017].
  119. Reeves, C.V., Teasdale, J.P. & Mahanjance, E.S.
    2016. Insight inot the Eastern margin of Africa from a new tectonic model of the Indian Ocean. In: Nemcok, M., Rybar, S., Sinha, S.T., Hermeston, S.A. & Ledvenyiova, L. (eds) Transform Margins: Development, Controls and Petroleum Systems. Geological Society, London, Special Publications, 431, 299–322, https://doi.org/10.1144/SP431.12
    [Google Scholar]
  120. Richardson, S. M., Bott, W. F., Smith, B.A., Hollar, W.D. & Bermingham, P.M.
    1995. A new hydrocarbon ‘play’ offshore Socotra Island, Republic of Yemen. Journal of Petroleum Geology, 18, 5–28.
    [Google Scholar]
  121. Riley, T.R., Millar, I.L., Watkeys, M.K., Curtism, M.L., Leat, P.T., Klausen, M.B. & Fanning, C.M.
    2004. U–Pb zircon (SHRIMP) ages for the Lebombo rhyolites, South Africa: refining the duration of Karoo volcanism. Journal of the Geological Society, London, 161, 547–550, https://doi.org/10.1144/0016-764903-181
    [Google Scholar]
  122. Ringenbach, J.C., Maurin, T., Chappey, C. & Allain, M.
    2017. Somali Basin's crustal structure and post-drift deformation: a recorder of Madagascar and India drifts. PESGB/HGS 16th African E & P Conference, 31 August–1 September 2017, London, Abstract Volume, 41.
    [Google Scholar]
  123. Roach, P., Milsom, J., Toland, C., Matchette-Downes, C., Budden, C., Riaroh, D. & Houmad, N.
    2017. New evidence supports continental crust beneath the Comoros. In: PESGB/HGS 16th African E & P Conference, 31 August–1 September 2017, London, Abstract Volume, 22–23.
    [Google Scholar]
  124. Robinson, P., Morrison, K & Fittal, M.
    2012. Seychelles Micro-continent, An Integration of Regional Tectonics and Stratigraphy to Unlock the Hydrocarbon Potential. WHL Energy Ltd presentation for the Geological Society, London.
    [Google Scholar]
  125. RPS Energy Canada Ltd
    . 2013. Tanzania and Mozambique Contingent and Prospective Resources Assessment as at August 31, 2013. RPS Energy Canada Ltd, Calgary, Canada, https://www.wentworthresources.com/pdf/Tanzania-Mozambique-Public-Domain.pdf[last accessed 14 May 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  126. Salazar, M.U., Baker, D., Francis, M., Kornpihl, D. & WestT.
    2013. Frontier exploration offshore the Zambesi Delta, Mozambique. First Break, 31, 135–144.
    [Google Scholar]
  127. Salman, G. & Abdula, I.
    1995. Development of the Mozambique and Ruvuma sedimentary basins, offshore Mozambique. Sedimentary Geology, 96, 7–41.
    [Google Scholar]
  128. Sandwell, D.T., Müller, R. D., Smith, W.H.F., Garcia, E. & Francis, R.
    2014. New global marine gravity model from CryoSat-2 and Jason-1 reveals buried tectonic structure. Science, 346, 65–67.
    [Google Scholar]
  129. Sansom, P.
    2013. Insights from the first deepwater core, offshore Tanzania. Abstract and presentation at the East Africa Petroleum Conference and Exhibition , 6–8 February 2013, Arusha, Tanzania.
    [Google Scholar]
  130. Sayers, N.
    2017. Impact of tertiary tectonic activity on the petroleum system, offshore Tanzania/Mozambique, East Africa. PESGB/HGS 16th African E & P Conference, 31 August–1 September 2017, London, Abstract Volume, 42–43.
    [Google Scholar]
  131. Schandelmeier, H., Bremer, F. & Holl, H.-G.
    2004. Kinematic evolution of the Morondava rift Basin of SW Madagascar – from wrench tectonics to normal extension. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 38, 321–330.
    [Google Scholar]
  132. Schlüter, P. & Uenzelmann-Neben, G.
    2008. Conspicuous seismic reflections in Upper Cretaceous sediments as evidence for black shales off South Africa. Marine and Petroleum Geology, 25, 989–999.
    [Google Scholar]
  133. Segoufin, J. & Patriat, P.
    1980. Existence d'anomalies mesozoiques dans le basin de Somalie. Implications pour les relations Afrique–Antarctique–Madagascar [Existence of Mesozoic anomalies in the Somalia Basin. Implications for Africa–Antarctica–Madagascar relations]. Compte Rendu Academie Science Paris, 291B, 85–88.
    [Google Scholar]
  134. Simco
    . 2010. Algoa–Gamtoos Basins Offshore South Africa. Simco, London[last accessed December 2010, no longer available January 2014].
    [Google Scholar]
  135. Singh, V.
    2003. South Africa's east coast frontier offers untested mid to deepwater potential. Oil & Gas Journal, 101, (22), 2 June 2003.
    [Google Scholar]
  136. Singleton, S., Gillooly, J., Ridyard, D. & Horn, B.
    2014. Seismic acquisition trends, technological innovations drive trends in onshore, offshore seismic acquisition. The American Oil & Gas Reporter, October 2014, http://www.aogr.com/magazine/cover-story/technological-innovations-drive-trends-in-onshore-offshore-seismic-acquisit[last accessed 1 March 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  137. Soma Oil & Gas
    . 2014. Unlocking Somalia's potential. Eastern African Oil, Gas - LNG Energy Conference, 29–30 April 2014, Nairobi Kenya [last accessed in April 2015].
    [Google Scholar]
  138. . 2015. Unlocking Somalia's potential. Presented at the 1st International Forum on Somalia Oil, Gas & Mining , 27–28 April 2015, London.
    [Google Scholar]
  139. Stanca, R., Kearns, H., Paton, D., Hodgson, N., Rodriguez, K. & Hussein, A.A.
    2016. Offshore Somalia: crustal structure and implications on thermal maturity. First Break, 34, December, 61–67.
    [Google Scholar]
  140. St John, W.
    2016. Synopsis of geology of Ethiopia. AAPG Search and Discovery Article 70215.
    [Google Scholar]
  141. Stone, R.A & Leroy, S.D.
    2003. Madagascar Deepwater – 1 : Deepwater basin confirmed far off Western Madagascar. Oil & Gas Journal, 101, (9), 3 March 2003.
    [Google Scholar]
  142. Storey, M., Mahoney, J.J., Saunders, A.D., Duncan, R.A., Kelley, S.P. & Coffin, M.F.
    1995. Timing of hot spot-related volcanism and the break-up of Madagascar and India. Science, 267, 852–855.
    [Google Scholar]
  143. Tamannai, M.S.
    2008. An evaluation of the petroleum system offshore Morondava Basin, Madagascar. Proceedings 70th EAGE Conference and Exhibition, Rome, 4.
    [Google Scholar]
  144. Tari, G.
    2016. Where is the oil in East Africa, and can it match the gas success story in the region?Abstract presented at the AAPG Europe, Regional Conference , 19–20 May 2016, Bucharest Romania.
    [Google Scholar]
  145. Tari, G., Coterill, K., Molnar, J., Valasek, D., Walters, G. & Alvarez, Y.
    2004. Salt tectonics and sedimentation in the offshore Majunga Basin. Salt–Sediment Interactions and Hydrocarbon Prospectivity: GCSSEPM 2004 Perkins Conference, 7 December 2004, Houston, Texas, 614–639.
    [Google Scholar]
  146. Thompson, K.F.M. & Dow, W.G.
    1990. Investigation of Cretaceous and Tertiary kerogens in sediments of the Weddell Sea. In: Barker, P.F., Kennett, J.P. et al. (ed.) Proceedings of the Ocean Drilling Program Scientific Results, Volume 113. Ocean Drilling Program, College Station, Texas, 189–197.
    [Google Scholar]
  147. Thomson, K.
    1999. Role of continental break-up, mantle plume development and fault reactivation in the evolution of the Gamtoos Basin, South Africa. Marine and Petroleum Geology, 16, 409–429.
    [Google Scholar]
  148. Torsvik, T.H., Tucker, R.D., Ashwal, L.D., Eide, E.A., Rakotosolofo, N.A. & de Wit, M.J.
    1998. Late Cretaceous magmatism in Madagascar: paloemagnetic evidence for a stationary Marion hotspot. Earth and Planetary Science Letters, 164, 221–232.
    [Google Scholar]
  149. Trueblood, S.
    2013. Finding big oil fields in East Africa Inhassoro: the southernmost oil field in the East African rift system?Presentation, SASOL Petroleum International, 9 April 2013.
  150. Tucker, R.D., Ashwal, L.D. & Torsvik, T.H.
    2001. U–Pb geochronology of Seychelles granitoids: a Neoproterozoic continental arc fragment (PDF). Earth and Planetary Science Letters, 187, 27–38, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0012-821X(01)00282-5
    [Google Scholar]
  151. 2b1st Consulting
    . 2015. Statoil and Exxonmobil Accumulate Discoveries in Block 2, https://www.2b1stconsulting.com/statoil-and-exxonmobil-accumulate-discoveries-in-tanzania-block-2/[last accessed 16 May 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  152. Van der Spuy, D.
    2009. South African offshore acreage release. South African Petroleum Agency PowerPoint, American Petroleum Geologists Prospects Exhibition APPEX 2009, 3–5 March 2009, London.
    [Google Scholar]
  153. 1997. Geochemistry Synthesis Report-Onshore Algoa Basin. SOE-PLU-RPT-040, Soekor Petroleum Licensing Unit (PSV2794).
    [Google Scholar]
  154. Van Hinsbergen, D.J.J., Steinberger, B., Doubrovine, P.V. & Gassmöller, R.
    2011. Acceleration and deceleration of India – Asia convergence since the Cretaceous: roles of mantle plumes and continental collision. Journal of Geophysical Research, 116, B06101.
    [Google Scholar]
  155. Walford, H., White, N. & Sydow, J.
    2005. Solid sediment load history of the Zambezi Delta. Earth and Planetary Sciences Letters, 238, 49–63.
    [Google Scholar]
  156. Webster, R.E. & Ensign, P.S.
    2007. Exploring the Jurassic carbonate platform margin, Majunga Basin, Madagascar. AAPG Search and Discovery Article 10128 presented at the AAPG Annual Meeting , 1–4 April 2007, Long Beach, California, USA.
    [Google Scholar]
  157. Welch, R. & Hyden, G.
    2005. New insights into the Morondava Basin and Mozambique Channel, offshore Madagascar. PESGB/HGS 4th African E & P Conference, September 2005, Houston, Texas, Abstract Volume.
    [Google Scholar]
  158. Wentworth Resources Ltd
    . 2015. Corporate Presentation, October 2015. Wentworth Resources Ltd, Calgary, Canada, http://www.wentworthresources.com/pdf/Wentworth-Corporate-Presentation-October-2015-FINAL.pdf[last accessed 2 February 2017].
    [Google Scholar]
  159. Wescott, W.A. & Diggens, J.N.
    1997. Depositional history and stratigraphical evolution of the Sakoa Group (Lower Karoo Supergroup) in the southern Morondova Basin, Madagascar. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 24, 585–601.
    [Google Scholar]
  160. 1998. Depositional history and stratigraphical evolution of the Sakamena Group (Middle Karoo Supergroup) in the southern Morondava Basin, Madagascar. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 27, 461–479.
    [Google Scholar]
  161. Zacarias, C.
    2009. Mozambique 4th License Round. Africa Upstream, 6–8 October 2009, Cape Town South Africa . Instituto Nacional de Petroleo publicity flyer.
http://instance.metastore.ingenta.com/content/journals/10.1144/petgeo2017-028
Loading
/content/journals/10.1144/petgeo2017-028
Loading

Data & Media loading...

  • Article Type: Research Article

Most Cited This Month Most Cited RSS feed

This is a required field
Please enter a valid email address
Approval was a Success
Invalid data
An Error Occurred
Approval was partially successful, following selected items could not be processed due to error