Exploring South of Rovuma - Hydrocarbon Potential of the Offshore North Mozambique Basin

Abstract

The present study focusses on the geological understanding and hydrocarbon potential of the north Mozambique basin. This part of the Mozambique basin is relatively underexplored with a paucity of wells. The area is bound in the north by the Rovuma basin where the discovery of large natural gas fields represents one of the most exciting exploration successes of recent years. Multiclient broadband 2D seismic data acquired in 2013 has been interpreted in the study area. The results of the seismic interpretation are combined with information available on potential source, seal and reservoir rocks to create a 3D petroleum systems model. Synrift and postrift lacustrine and restricted marine shale sediments form potential source rock intervals. Numerous Jurassic, Cretaceous, and Teriary sandy intervals are identified in the basin as potential reservoir levels. Both structural and stratigraphic trapping mechanisms are identified. An improved petroleum system modeling technique has been used to model the charge and timing of the various petroleum system elements, including the seal quality. The modeling results indicate at least two working petroleum systems. The seismic interpretation and modeling results provide a better understanding of the much underexplored north Mozambique basin.