Efora Company and Pacific Oil Limited have relinquished ownership of their licensed blocks, according to a letter addressed to the Ministry of Natural Resources, Energy and Mining, written by Efora Energy’s vice-president (commercial) Willem de Meyer.

The development follows after the Malawi Government issued six oil and gas exploration and production licenses in which 60% lies outside the lake. According to the letter, the firm’s attempts to find a partner have been unsuccessful due to the depressed nature of the exploration cycle. The letter reads, “Although Efora recognises the potential for further exploration in block one, the company does not wish to extend its exploration commitments any further at this stage.”

 In June, RAK Gas MB 45 Limited, a gas and oil exploration firm, has it was announced that it has finalised its impact study that was analysing the effects of oil drilling on people, land, water, animals, plants and air. In partnership with Akatswiri Consultancy and Enviro Consultancy, the exploration company conducted an environmental impact assessment on oil exploration in Machinga, Salima and Mangochi.