Evolutionary Dynamics of the East African Rift System: Implications for Hydrocarbon Exploration

Bernard Kipsnag Rop; Fatuma Rajab Mwanganga; Koskey Philemon Kiprotich

Abstract

Rifts formation is a complex mechanism that has always generated debate with different models beingfronted, from thermal bulges to cratonic pull, all in an attempt to explain how the rifts form. East Africarift system (EARS), and its associated sedimentary basins within the general regional tectonicframework is one of the most active rifts in the world. The EARS has, over the years, experienced someoil and gas exploration though characteristically low. However, with recent oil discoveries in Kenyaand Uganda (2012 and 2006 respectively), there has been resurgence in oil and gas hunt within theextensive rift. This draws into perspective the real hydrocarbon potential EARS could hold.Understanding the rift genesis and regional tectonic setting could help unearth the full potential of theEARS. Hydrocarbon prospects in the region must be looked together with the regional Tectonic settingas well as its history. The study describes regional Tectonic evolution of the Tertiary Rift basins andhow it impacted on the prospectivity of hydrocarbon potential rationale.