(Ecofin Agency) - Kenya has postponed all exploration activities in the 42,000 km² offshore exploration area of the Indian Ocean, where Eni has been prospecting for hydrocarbons.

This area which contains offshore exploration blocks L-21, L-23 and L-24 has been a subject of dispute with Somalia.

The three blocks located in the deep and ultra-deep sections of the Lamu basin were awarded to Eni in 2012 together with a 100% interest and there have been demands for a negotiated settlement to resolve the maritime dispute, with Somalia insisting on the International Court of Justice.

Somalia had requested the court to decide if the two countries should divide the border using the equidistant line. If the principle is applied, Somalia’s maritime border would extend South East rather than current situation where the border extends eastwards.

“Kenya has voluntarily suspended its transitory exploratory activities in the disputed area as an expression of its good faith. In May, we invited Somalia to enter into provisional arrangements pending an agreement on the maritime boundary. We remain open to discussing these arrangements with Somalia,” Githu Muigai (photo), Attorney-General of the Republic of Kenya, said at the court last week.

Muigai added that he is confident that the parties will reach an agreement in line with the memorandum of understanding signed in 2009, Oil News Kenya reports.

Anita Fatunji