South Africa's environment minister has dismissed appeals by conservationists seeking to block offshore oil and gas exploration in TotalEnergies-operated Block 3B/4B off the country's West Coast, clearing a regulatory hurdle for a project that has faced sustained opposition from environmental groups.
The decision, dated October 13, was made by Environmental Affairs Minister David Maynier, according to a document seen by Reuters. It marks the latest development in a series of legal challenges and appeals that have slowed oil and gas exploration in Africa's largest economy.
A total of 47 individuals and environmental organisations, including Greenpeace Africa, had appealed against a 2024 decision by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources authorising the drilling of up to five exploration wells in the block.
The environmental authorisation was initially granted to Africa Oil SA Corp, Ricocure (Pty) Limited and Azinam Ltd. TotalEnergies and QatarEnergy subsequently acquired participating interests in the project.
Although Maynier dismissed all the appeals, he imposed conditions relating to assessments of food security and the livelihoods of coastal communities, highlighting concerns about the potential socioeconomic consequences of offshore exploration.
Under South African law, parties dissatisfied with the minister's decision can seek a judicial review through the courts, leaving open the possibility of further legal proceedings.
TotalEnergies welcomed the decision, saying it would work with the relevant authorities to ensure compliance with the conditions, including requirements for environmental monitoring and marine protection.
However, Greenpeace Africa criticised the outcome, describing the dismissal of the appeals as a "critical failure" of environmental governance and warning of a direct threat to the country's West Coast.
The block lies within the broader Orange Basin, a region considered highly prospective for oil and gas resources and attracting growing interest from international energy companies.
Source: Reuters
Reporting: Wendell Roelf
Editing: Susan Fenton& Joe Bavier
