Hydrocarbon potential in the key basins in the East Coast of Africa

This paper analyzes the evolution and sedimentary filling characteristics of regional structures in the sedimentary basins in the east coast of Africa and discusses the different geological conditions of hydrocarbon accumulations (e.g. source rock, reservoir and cap-rock) and their exploration potential. These basins are superimposed basins developed on the Precambrian basement, they were successively filled with three sedimentary sequences, i.e. the late Carboniferous – early Jurassic intra-continental rifting continental sedimentary sequence, the mid/late Jurassic – early Cretaceous intra-continental weak rifting sedimentary sequence, and the late Cretaceous – Neogene passive margin marine sedimentary sequence, where different source-reservoir-caprock assemblages show good prospects for exploration. The comprehensive comparison and analysis has been conducted on such geological conditions in six key basins (Lamu, Somalia, Tanzania, Ruvuma, Mozambique and Morondava). It is considered that the Tanzania, Ruvuma and Somalia basins are highly potential for superior geological conditions, such as excellent source rocks and cap rocks, and good preservation later. The Mozambique basin is also favorable for exploration, but the Lamu and Morondava basins are unacceptable.