The semliki basin field study project involving collection and interpretation of stratigraphic, petrographic, sedimentologic and structural data in the albertine graben.

Abstract

This report presents a detailed documentation of observations recorded in the field and the post-field analysis of the collected data in the Semliki basin situated within the Albertine graben of western Uganda. The main objective of the study was to gain field training on data collection and interpretation of stratigraphic, petrographic, sedimentologic and structural data which are very important in hydrocarbon exploration. Different sites were visited and studied so as to achieve the specific objectives ranging from lithology identification, structure observation, facies identification, inferring the depositional environment and identifying different elements of the petroleum system so as to assess the petroleum potential of the Semliki basin. Specific sites visited include Kichwamba, Kisegi hill quarry, Kisegi River, Kibuku road cut, Turaco well site and Sempaya hot springs. Several methods and materials such as GPS, Jacob’s staff, Hand lens were used in data collection throughout the field study and several facies were logged and analyzed. The sedimentary structures observed in both sediments and basement were either primary such as laminations and beddings or secondary structures such as faults, fold, joints and veins. The study area provides a synergy between petroleum exploration and geothermal exploration evidenced by the hot springs in the area. The geothermal gradient influences maturation of the source rock and early generation of hydrocarbons despite the fact that the basin is still young. Geophysical data of Semliki basin revealed that its sediments represent a petroleum play for hydrocarbon accumulations as all elements of a petroleum system were identified in the field. The geologic setting of the area intergrated with knowledge of stratigraphy, geophysics, structural geology and sedimentology enabled tracing of the basin’s geological history and thus determine the petroleum potential of the basin and assess the economic viability. iii | P a g e