Semiliki Basin (Albertine Graben), Karugutu Area,Ntoroko District

Abstract

This report entails how the field study was conducted in June 2018 and the findings in the tertiary Semliki basin found in Albertine Graben. The study was aimed at training us students of petroleum geoscience on how to collect, and interpret geological, geophysical, stratigraphic, sedimentologically and structural data. Different methods were considered and materials were used simultaneously and the results were compared. That is to say; Geological method involved outcrop studies, logging, and structural measurements while geophysical methods involved seismic, well log interpretations. The materials and techniques ranged from handy geologic tools, for example a hand lens to laboratory equipment and software such as Geosoft, sedilog, techlog. Different lithologies were encountered in the study area and these were mainly unconsolidated sands, clays, silts, and conglomerates. While the probably stratigraphy had alternating argillaceous and arenaceous formations. The various observed structures and facies succession were used to determine / relate the different deposition processes and environments (fluvial, deltaic and lacustrine), paleocurrent directions and paleo-environmental conditions, water energy levels. The observations and interpretation made from the field study area revealed great hydrocarbons potential in Semliki basin, with a complete petroleum system. Turaco fault system and flower structures interpreted from seismic data are important structural traps for hydrocarbons. The stratigraphic logging revealed thick clays, sand layers proceeding and succeeding each other thus making a seal and a reservoir rock respectively. Although the basin sediments are of Tertiary age making them young, there are clear indications of oil seeps in the area for example in kibuku observed and the high geothermal temperatures as witnessed at Sempaya hot springs, are positive indications of a high hydrocarbon potential of the area.