Tectonostratigraphic Evolution and Petroleum Potential of the Lake Edward Basin, Uganda: Insights From Integrated Surface and Subsurface Data Analysis

ABSTRACT This study integrates geological (well logs, outcrop), geophysical (2D seismic and gravity surveys), and palynological data to reconstruct the tectonostratigraphic evolution of the Lake Edward Basin (Uganda) and assess its hydrocarbon potential. Results confirm an asymmetric half‐graben bounded by major faults to the west and subsidiary faults to the east, with westward‐thickening sediments reflecting basement geometry. Seismic interpretation reveals growth strata, fault‐controlled depocenters, and structural traps, whereas lithological and wireline data confirm the presence of fluvio‐deltaic reservoirs interbedded with local and possible regional seals. With a rift thermal gradient of ∼33–35°C/km, depocenters in the western part of the basin fall within the oil window. The clustering of hydrocarbon seeps on the surface of Lake Edward above the Kasindi–Bantu Fault Zone, coupled with well failure analysis, suggests that lateral hydrocarbon migration from source areas is likely limited, indicating restricted long‐distance migration pathways. Although no hydrocarbon discovery has yet been made, the basin exhibits favorable structural and stratigraphic configurations comparable to proven rift plays in the wider Albertine Rift. This work underscores the need for further offshore high‐resolution geophysical data acquisition, cross‐border data integration, and advanced basin modeling to de‐risk the petroleum system and guide future exploration.