While no comment from the UK firm was forthcoming at press time, it is believed the acquisition of the Africa-based exploration firm will allow it to increase its output in Africa and have access to Energy Africa’s 90% stake in the Kudu offshore gas field in Namibia. Currently, Tullow’s involvement in the continent is with a project in Gabon.

Energy Africa is currently controlled by Malaysia’s Petronas and is based in Cape Town, South Africa.