South Africa Rejects Appeals Challenging TotalEnergies’ Offshore Exploration Plans
South Africa’s environmental authorities have dismissed appeals challenging TotalEnergies’ offshore oil and gas exploration activities, allowing the company’s exploration plans to proceed following a review of objections raised by environmental organisations and other stakeholders.
The dispute centres on offshore exploration activities in South African waters, where concerns have been raised about the potential effects of seismic surveys and drilling on marine ecosystems, fishing communities and coastal livelihoods.
Environmental groups have argued that offshore petroleum exploration could disrupt marine wildlife, including whales and other sensitive species, while increasing the risks associated with future oil and gas development.
The appeals sought to challenge the regulatory decisions permitting the exploration activities, citing concerns about environmental protection, public participation and the potential consequences of offshore operations.
Environment Minister David Maynier dismissed all the appeals in a decision dated 13 October 2026.
The environmental authorisation had originally been granted to Africa Oil SA Corp., Ricocure (Pty) Limited and Azinam Limited, before TotalEnergies and QatarEnergy acquired participating interests in the project.
However, the minister’s decision included additional conditions intended to address concerns about food security and the livelihoods of coastal communities.
These measures reflect the need to balance petroleum exploration with the economic interests of communities that depend on marine resources.
TotalEnergies welcomed the decision and said it would work with the relevant authorities to comply with environmental requirements, including measures for environmental monitoring and marine protection.
The Block 3B/4B licence covers approximately 17,581 square kilometres in the Orange Basin, offshore South Africa’s west coast, in water depths ranging from about 300 to 2,500 metres.
The basin has attracted considerable interest from international energy companies following significant oil discoveries in neighbouring Namibia.
TotalEnergies holds a 33% participating interest in the block and operates the licence, while QatarEnergy holds 24%. The remaining interests are held by Africa Oil, Azinam and Ricocure.
The minister’s decision marks another development in the ongoing debate over offshore oil and gas exploration in South Africa.
Environmental organisations have challenged several exploration approvals through appeals and court proceedings, arguing that regulators must adequately assess environmental risks and consult affected communities.
Under South African law, parties dissatisfied with the minister’s decision may seek a judicial review through the courts.
The outcome of any further legal challenges could influence the timeline for exploration activities in Block 3B/4B as South Africa weighs the potential economic benefits of offshore petroleum development against environmental protection and the interests of coastal communities.
