Apache Operations in Kenya

Apache has a 50 percent share in the offshore Block L8, of which it is also the operator. The remaining share is owned by Origin Energy (20 percent), Pancontinental (15 percent), and Tullow Oil (15 percent). In 2012 Apache discovered natural gas at its first exploration well in Kenya, the offshore Mbawa 1 well. Large quantities of natural gas have already been discovered in Tanzania and Mozambique, but this was the first in Kenya. Apache's discovery of natural gas received global media attention, as it may have major implications for the future of energy in Kenya and East Africa. An article in Ventures which appeared in September 2012 claimed, "this new gas find is major boost to East Africa’s pursuit of becoming a leading natural gas producer in the continent." However, the quantity was found to be not commercially viable, and the well has since been plugged. In October 2013, Apache announced that it would give up its share in Block L8.

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