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Editor's Corrner |
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(E+P)+R+MF+X=AE
or
The "X" Factor in Africa Energy
by
Gwen Pearson |
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I love math. I think in terms of
mathematical functions and theories. It's a matter of processing
and sorting data.
For instance, my formula above. Whereas, E+P equals exploration
and production, R equals reserves, MF equals marginal fields and
X equals the unknown are the subsets and/or components that make
up the whole of AE (Africa Energy)
In mathematics, I remember studying sets. Very
simple theory. A subset is a part of -- a fraction of the whole.
But at all times most importantly, while concentrating on the
subsets, you must keep in the mind the bigger picture and that
is the whole.
Too often within our industry, concentration tend
to be on a subset(s). What's going on in the upstream.
Exploration and production is very important. Afrik Energy News
always will include information on that sector. We also will
always cover a sample of service contracts being awarded to
support that sector.
Or for instance, in this issue, Engineer Fisoye
Delano, Managing Director of Nigerian Petroleum Development
Company, gives a list of energy opportunities in Nigeria. Hope
you found it informative.
Where's the next big find. Congratulation to
Ghana on their major discovery off of their shores. A lot of
focus among some business people are on the marginal fields and
oil blocks up for bid. Read this month's article on Libya's oil
rounds.
Africom, America's military base to be built in Africa, may in
theory seem to have been a good security idea. But read this
month's issue where African countries are not as welcoming to
hosting Africom as America initially thought they would.
But to see the whole picture of Africa energy,
the "X" factor is important. Those unknowns that will influence
Africa energy. The political initiative of the United States of
Africa was recently defeated, but African leaders didn't say
that the idea was dead, but just postponed for now.
In a previous issue, there was an article on a
recent project by Rice University which concluded that there is
a new shift among Africa's National Oil Companies to more
control their resources and move more into the role of becoming
the new Shells and Exxons of tomorrow.
That's also why you will find in Afrik Energy
News, more stories which come straight from the African National
Oil Companies directly. What are their new initiatives and
political directives that industry players need to know to make
informed decisions. Who's in power now? Who do we expect to be
in power tomorrow?
A few months ago, African energy ministers met to
discuss unity and stronger cooperation. Is the foundation being
set for an African OPEC?
As we strive to report quality and impartial news
on Africa oil, we will always be on the lookout to bring you the
"X" factor. gpearson@afrikenergy.com |
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