President Zuma Says Shale Gas Licences to be Issued Soon

South Africa will soon be issuing licences for the exploration of shale gas drilling through hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, President Jacob Zuma said Wednesday.

“It is this government’s hope that we, together with your respective governments, will find practical opportunities to enhance the economic opportunities the shale gas sector has to present,” Zuma said in Pretoria. .

He said that according to the recent estimates, South Africa has the eight largest shale gas reserves in the world and the Karoo is believed to be holding up to 390-trillion cubic feet of recoverable gas reserves.

However, Zuma did not spell out the exact details as to when the licences will be issued.

In May, South Africa commissioned an investigation into the possible impacts and potential mitigation opportunities of shale gas if it is found in the country.

Various groups have protested against exploring for shale by fracking in Karoo due to fear of environmental damage.