Interim Results

25th Sep 2009 07:00



Interim Results

Significant reserves growth; production ahead of plan

Afren plc ("Afren" or the "Company") (AIM: AFR), announces its interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2009 and an operational update to 25 September 2009.

Key highlights

o Follows successful appraisal drilling, with Ebok-4 proving a gross oil column of 274 ft

net oil pay, 53 mmbbls 2P recoverable (management case);

o 99 mmbbls appraisal upside identified;

o On target to deliver 15,000 bopd in H1 2010;

o Estimated 225 mmbbls STOIIP with 70 mmbbls potentially recoverable;

o Total Ebok - Okwok complex 2P recoverable of 123 mmbbl, with upside of 151 mmbbls

and;

o Significant development synergies.

o Up to eight wells planned across the portfolio to the end of 2010, targeting 581 mmboe

gross resources.

o Cash balances at 30 June 2009 of US$153.3 million, net debt of US$194.9 million; and

o Gearing now at 45% compared with 82% at year end.

 

2009 Interim Results Summary

The first half of 2009 was another period of significant progress across all aspects of Afren's core business, with both operational and strategic successes demonstrated. Afren continued to exceed prior production guidance in Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire, while delivering further low risk reserves growth, through the successful appraisal of the Ebok field in Nigeria. In addition, the acquisition of an interest in the Okwok field in Nigeria subsequent to period end significantly increases the reserves potential on the larger Ebok - Okwok complex, whilst offering joint development synergies. The first phase drilling is to commence shortly on the Ebok field, the wellhead support structure is under construction, production facilities are under final negotiation, and the Company is on track for first production from the field in H1 2010. The financial results incorporate Afren's first full half year of production, with low oil prices in early 2009 impacting revenues at Okoro, CI-11 and LGP. Afren expects the benefits of the cost efficiencies identified in H1 2009 to be realised in H2 2009.

Financial Highlights		H1 2009	H1 2008
Turnover	US$mm	155.2	Nil
Gross Profit	US$mm	20.5	(3.5)
Loss Before Tax	US$mm	(37.4)	(26.8)
Loss After Tax	US$mm	(38.5)	(26.8)
Cashflow from operations	US$mm	98.0	(12.2)
Net W.I. production*	boepd	22,964	Nil
Realised oil price	US$/bbl	50.3	n/a
Realised gas price	US$/mmbtu	4.6	n/a

*Including natural gas liquids

Osman Shahenshah, Chief Executive of Afren plc, commented:

"Against a challenging initial market backdrop, the first half has witnessed a period of significant operational success. We have exceeded prior production guidance in Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire and successfully appraised the Ebok field in Nigeria. Together with the acquisition of a significant interest in Okwok, the broader Ebok - Okwok complex offers significant reserves upside to 275 million barrels. Over the next 12 to 18 months Afren will be aiming to prove up to 686 million barrels through an aggressive appraisal and exploration program. In addition, we will commence development drilling on Ebok, delivering first production in H1 2010".

25 September 2009

Afren plc +44 20 7451 9700

Osman Shahenshah  Chief Executive

Galib Virani  Head of Acquisitions and Investor Relations

Jefferies  +44 20 7029 8000

Jack Pryde

 

Pelham Public Relations +44 20 7337 1500

James Henderson

Mark Antelme

  Operations review

Nigeria

2009 Interim Results Summary

Production	Reserves and Resources +	Turnover
19,327 bopd	217 mmbbl	US$137.7 mm

+ Net entitlement

Okoro Setu Project

Production at Okoro for the period averaged 19,327 bopd, representing a 29% out-performance compared to initial production expectations of 15,000 bopd pre start-up. The production process is stable with all instrumentation functioning as required and uptime in excess of 97%. The offtake process and export of the produced crude oil is running smoothly. As at 30 June 2009, a total of 28 export liftings had been successfully executed with an average parcel size of 160,000 bbls. Total gross cumulative production from the field (since start-up) at 30 June 2009 was 4.7 mmbbls

Focus on optimising recovery, infill targets identified

In late June 2009 we began to observe minor water production from two of the seven production wells. This is entirely consistent with our reservoir model and fully in line with anticipated field performance. Continuing sub-surface and reservoir management work has identified two attractive infill drilling locations that will add incremental reserves and production, utilising the two remaining well slots available at the Okoro wellhead platform. Work is also continuing on defining the best option to economically produce the oil reserves at the Setu field.

Ebok - Okwok development area

Following the successful appraisal of the Ebok field and confirmation (management case) of a 53 mmbbls 2P recoverable development (a circa 210% increase in reserves versus pre-appraisal estimates), Afren has identified a further 99 mmbbls of additional upside potential that increases the total resource potential of Ebok to 152 mmbbls. Importantly, this includes an additional 150 mmbbls Stock Tank Oil Initially in Place (STOIIP) potential (estimated 45 mmbbls recoverable) in the Qua Iboe sands.

The Afren operated Ebok-4 appraisal well, drilled by the Transocean Trident IV jack up drilling unit, was completed in February 2009. The well encountered net oil pay of 274ft in high quality reservoir sands ranging in depth from 2,560ft to 3,718ft. After an extensive logging and sampling programme, drill stem testing delivered a facilities constrained rate of 1,450 bopd of 20° to 25° API crude oil. Well test analysis and dynamic reservoir simulation modelling confirms that flow-rates of circa 3,500 bopd per well in a production scenario will be achieved which is also consistent with offset production data from analogous fields in the area.

Phase 1 drilling schedule

Following the announcement in September 2009 that Afren and Oriental had signed a rig contract with Transocean for the Adriatic IX jack-up drilling rig, development Phase 1a will commence shortly with the imminent spudding of the Ebok-5 appraisal well. This initial development phase at Ebok will comprise of the following drilling targets and objectives:

Development Phase 1b, targeting the upside in the D2 Southern Lobe, will follow, comprising a further three horizontal production wells and one water injection well drilled from the existing Wellhead Support Structure.

Field development remains on track

Fabrication of the Ebok Wellhead Support Structure is well underway, with final negotiations taking place for the production facilities. The required environmental impact assessment ("EIA") for Ebok, together with the field development plan ("FDP") have been submitted to the Nigerian authorities.

Following completion of development Phases 1a and 1b (which is set to deliver production of 15,000 bopd in H1 2010, increasing to 35,000 bopd by end 2010), it is planned that development Phase 2a will be launched, incorporating full development of the D1 reservoir and Fault Block West, whilst appraising the potential within the West Flank Qua Iboe structure (150 mmbbls STOIIP, estimated 45 mmbbls recoverable) and Fault Block North (30 mmbbls STOIIP, estimated 9 mmbbls recoverable).

Okwok

On 25 August 2009, Afren announced that it has entered into a Joint Venture Agreement ("JVA") with Oriental and Addax Petroleum Nigeria Offshore Limited, a subsidiary of Addax Petroleum Corporation ("Addax Petroleum") for the development of the Okwok field, located in OML 67, adjacent to the Ebok field. The JVA defines the commercial terms under which Afren will participate in the development of Okwok, with Afren acquiring a 28% legal interest (subject to requisite approvals). Under this agreement, Afren will fund 100% of the costs of the first appraisal well (to a minimum depth of the Lower D2 horizon), after which Afren and Addax Petroleum will be required to fund all capital and operating costs for development of the field on a pro-rata basis (70% and 30% respectively). Afren will be entitled to 70% of net field revenues (pre cost recovery), reverting to 56% (post cost recovery), subject to gross volumes lifted.

Delivering low risk material reserves growth

Okwok is an undeveloped oil field, 50 km offshore in 132 ft of water and 15 km east of the Afren/Oriental owned Ebok development. The field was discovered by the ExxonMobil / NNPC JV in 1967 (Okwok-1), and two subsequent appraisal wells were drilled in 1968 (Okwok-2 and Okwok-3) but not production tested. The wells encountered oil in the LD1 and D2 series of reservoirs with over 100 ft of oil pay logged in the Okwok-2 well at the D2 level plus multiple 50 ft oil bearing sections in the LD1 in Okwok-1 and Okwok-2. Oriental and Addax Petroleum drilled a further three wells in 2006 which found over 100 ft of oil pay in the D2 of Okwok-4ST and an approximate equivalent amount of pay in the LD1 series in Okwok-8. The Okwok-4ST1 well sampled 32° API quality crude, while Okwok-8 tested 27°API quality crude oil at a rate of 1,200 bopd per day from the LD1 reservoir interval.

Through Afren's enhanced technical understanding of the area based on detailed work and appraisal drilling at Ebok, Afren estimates that Okwok has 225 mmbbls STOIIP in the D2, LD1c, LD1d and LD1e reservoirs. Assuming a 32% recovery factor, 70 mmbbls of oil in place could be produced. Additional hydrocarbon potential has also been identified at the deeper Qua Iboe level that could add significantly to the reserves base. Two separate prospects have been identified and are each estimated to contain circa 200 mmbbls STOIIP.

Development planning and joint development synergies

Afren plans to drill its commitment well on the field mid 2010, and is currently engaged in detailed sub-surface technical studies to determine the optimal well location and field development concept. The greater Ebok / Okwok complex offers significant development synergies, providing scope for cost reduction and savings in the areas of joint storage and export operations and sharing of services (supply vessel, helicopter, drilling rig).

OPL907 / OPL917

Afren as operator is undertaking an environmental impact assessment (EIA) programme ahead of planned 2D seismic acquisition across both blocks. Additional 2D seismic data has also been identified and obtained from the Department of Petroleum Resources, which will supplement the existing data and reprocessing programme that is currently underway and optimise the acquisition of new seismic. The blocks are both located within the highly prospective, under explored Anambra Basin (30 wells drilled to date), covering a gross area of 3,500 km2.

OPL 907 and OPL917 contain potentially attractive Cretaceous opportunities. OPL 917 contains the Igbarium discovery with an estimated in place volume of 300 bcf and 80 mmbbls condensate within the Turonian - Maastrichtian deltaic to shallow marine Nkporo formation. Afren believes that OPL 907 and OPL 917 are capable of yielding up to ten drillable prospects of similar size to Igbarium with a probability of success ranging between 30% to 40%. The main hydrocarbon plays consist of late Cretaceous deltaic to shallow marine clastics in fault related traps. Drilling is likely to commence on the two blocks in 2012, with one well initially on OPL 907 and two wells on OPL 917.

Ogedeh development

The Ogedeh discovery was made by Chevron in 1993 in an area lying close to existing infrastructure. Given the relative materiality of the Ebok / Okwok complex, Afren is currently reviewing strategic options in relation to the Ogedeh field.

First Hydrocarbon Nigeria

In direct response to the Nigerian government's objective to increase the level of local participation in the oil and gas sector and in line with Afren's overall indigenous-focused strategy, we have established First Hydrocarbon Nigeria ("FHN") with the support of two leading Nigerian financial institutions (First City Monument Bank Plc ("FCMB") and Guaranty Trust Bank Plc ("GTBank")). Over time, FHN will be owned by a wider Nigerian stakeholder base, ensuring diversity of ownership and a reflection of Afren's Nigerian focus. Subject to prevailing market conditions, it is the intention that FHN will seek a listing on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in due course.

Indigenous Nigerian framework established

FHN fulfils the Nigerian government's criteria for indigenous operators and is an extension of Afren's long term commitment to empowering local management in Nigeria. FHN has been set up as a vehicle to acquire substantial oil and gas assets in Nigeria, both as part of a process in relation to existing negotiations and acquiring assets that may become available that are currently held by the joint ventures between the Nigerian government and international oil companies.

Côte d'Ivoire

Production	Reserves and Resources +	Turnover
8,359 boepd	116 mmbbl	US$17.5 mm

+ Working interest

CI-11 and Lion Gas Plant

We continued to outperform on production operations at CI-11 and the Lion Gas Plant, relative to the previous operator in the first half of 2009. Maintenance work continues on CI-11, following the assumption of operating control by Afren in September 2008. Marine growth removal on the central platform and surrounding caisson structures was successfully carried out and work on the wellheads is ongoing prior to commencing planned wireline workovers on a number of the wells.

Upside identified, workover and infill drilling programme planned

Subsurface evaluation work is also ongoing, focusing in particular on applying the latest understanding of the Cretaceous depositional model, with the aim of identifying infill drilling opportunities at CI-11 to target the remaining upside potential in early 2010. Due to the lack of gas demand when the field was originally developed, there are high gas oil ratio ("GOR") zones within the structure that are yet to be completed and produced whilst two closures in the Foxtrot Sands are yet to be tested. Additional potential within the Turonian and Senonian intervals could also yield additional upside potential. Rig based workover opportunities will also be co-ordinated with this programme, which is expected to prove up additional reserves and increase production rates.

Average NGL production at the Lion Gas Plant over the first half of 2009 was 1,142 boepd from a process stream of rich gas produced at blocks CI-11, CI-26 and CI-40, the latter two being third party owned. With a total inlet capacity of 75 mmcfd, the produced butane is sold into the local market with the gasoline spiked into the CI-11 crude stream and sold onto the open market. Afren is continuing to evaluate the feasibility of extracting propane at the plant which could be used to supply industrial customers.

CI-01

Out of 16 wells drilled to date on the block, 10 have found hydrocarbons (63% technical success rate) with five fields defined (Kudu, Eland, Ibex, Impala and Assinie). The last well drilled on the block was in 1998 by Ocean Energy. Consequently, the block has not benefited from the latest sub-surface understanding of the Cretaceous depositional systems which has led to world class discoveries adjacent to CI-01 across the border in Ghana. Additional exploration prospectivity is being defined as a result of ongoing work, incorporating the latest regional understanding of the Cretaceous in this area.

Ghana - exposure to an emerging, world class hydrocarbon fairway

The Keta block is a high impact, deep water exploration asset in easternmost Ghana, along the highly prospective but under explored West African Transform Margin. Multiple play types offer diverse hydrocarbon potential, with the primary targets being Cretaceous deep water clastics in combined structural / stratigraphic traps that offer giant field potential. The play concept is similar to that proved successfully in the recent Jubilee and Odum discoveries, reported to have been made in Campanian sands which is extremely promising for the Keta block. Several Upper Cretaceous closures have been identified on the block, which covers an area of 4,400 km2, ranging in size from 100 mmbbls to 600 mmbbls. Stratigraphic upside potential offers gross resources in excess of 2 billion bbls, making the Keta block world class acreage in an under explored fairway.

Forward Program

Following the completion of drilling operations at the Cuda-1x exploration well in December 2008, a decision was made to enter the second phase of the Keta licence which requires the drilling of one commitment well within a two year period (pending government approvals). In accordance with the terms of the licence, a mandatory reduction in the block size by 10% has been agreed with the Ghanain authorities. This relinquishment does not in any way impact our currently defined prospectivity. Post well analysis of Cuda-1x has been finalised, and plans to safely re-drill the prospect have been developed in the event that the same prospect is selected for drilling again. Additional on-block 2D seismic data has also been purchased and interpreted, identifying new leads which have been incorporated into the block inventory.

The Republic of Congo

Afren holds a 14% interest in the La Noumbi high-impact exploration licence, with multiple reservoir targets covering an area of 2,830km2. Interpretation of a new seismic data set had identified several attractive prospects mapped at several stratigraphic levels. Adjacent to and on trend with the major producing M'Boundi field, a working petroleum system has been established on the La Noumbi block with prospectivity existing at several horizons including the lower Cretaceous Chela and Djeno sandstones and Toca formation limestones. The identified traps are structures with four-way dip closures or more commonly three-way dip closures against basin parallel normal faults.

The 2D seismic data acquired in 2007 was incorporated with re-processed older data in the north of the block and an attractive prospect inventory has been developed. Operator Maurel et Prom is moving ahead with plans to drill the Tie Tie NE prospect, scheduled to spud early October 2009. The well is an up-dip appraisal of an existing discovery which flowed 1,600 bopd from two reservoir levels. Afren estimates combined gross unrisked mean resources at 87 mmbbls.

Gabon

Afren has a 16.7% non-operated interest in the Iris Marin Block. The joint venture is progressing the conversion of the Ibekelia TEA into a full PSC in which Afren has a 20.0% interest. Afren's Gabonese acreage represents low cost shallow water exploration within the lower Congo basin in southern Gabon.

 

Nigeria - São Tóme & Príncipe Joint Development Zone

The Block 1 participants (Afren 4.41%) have agreed to enter the next exploration period, and discussions with the authorities are progressing. One commitment well will be required during this phase. In 2006, Chevron made the Obo-1 discovery which contained 150 feet of net pay and proved a working oil and gas system in the JDZ. Post well studies have been completed and an attractive prospect inventory developed. In the neighbouring blocks a multi-well drilling campaign has commenced; a clearer understanding of the next steps to commerciality and future exploration will come once the results of these wells are made available publicly.

Outlook

In addition to a stable platform of producing and development assets, Afren has an attractive inventory of appraisal and exploration targets that will be drilled over the remainder of 2009 and throughout 2010. Recognising the importance of exposure to organic growth potential, the Company has carefully and selectively secured assets that provide material upside catalysts from a blended mix of appraisal and exploration targets. The next 12 months will see significant newsflow as we further appraise and develop the Ebok field, carry out exploration drilling on the La Noumbi permit in Congo Brazzaville, and in Ghana, complete a wireline and rig based workover programme on Block CI-11 in Côte d'Ivoire; and commence the appraisal and development of the Okwok field, offshore Nigeria. Our drilling programme will be targeting a gross un-risked resource base of 581 mmboe, as below:

Target	Well type	Gross 2P resources mmboe	Afren%*	Likely Timing
Ebok D2 Southern Lobe	App	8	50%	Q3 09
Ebok West Fault Block	App	25	50%	Q4 09
Ebok D2 Upside Extension	App	12	50%	Q2 10
Ebok West Flank Qua Iboe	Exp	45	50%	Q2 10
Ebok North Fault Block	App	9	50%	Q1 11
Okwok	App	70	56%	Q3 10
La Noumbi Tie Tie Up-Dip	Exp	87	14%	Q4 09
Keta Block	Exp	325	68%	Q4 10
Total		581

*Ebok Cost Oil share 100%, Profit Oil share post cost recovery 50%, legal interest 40%

 Okwok Cost Oil share 70%, Profit Oil share post cost recovery 56%, legal interest 28%

Additionally, we will continue to pursue and deliver materially accretive acquisitions through targeting the large number of discovered but un-developed fields that exist across the Gulf of Guinea.

  FINANCIAL REVIEW

Afren's first full half year of production reflects in part the low oil price environment, the higher than expected non-cash cost of sales and adjustments relating to derivative financial instruments. The production outperformance on Okoro and in Côte d'Ivoire partly offset the low oil price environment, resulting in total revenues of US$155.2 million (presented after deducting royalties). Afren sold approximately 3.7 mmboe (2008 1H: nil) and the average oil price achieved was US$50.3 per barrel before royalties.

Cost of sales, at US$134.6 million, comprised of US$83.5 million of depreciation and field operating costs including inventory movements of US$51.1 million. Depreciation was higher than expected, largely due to the production outperformance, with a greater proportion of reserves produced in H1 than budgeted. Operating costs of US$51.1 million (2008 1H: US$3.4 million), primarily comprised of US$37.9 million on Okoro, US$3.7 million on CI-11 in Côte d'Ivoire (excluding one-off diving operations of US$4.4 million) and US$3.5 million relating to the Lion Gas Plant. The cost efficiencies generated at Okoro were partly realised in the first half and we expect the full benefits to materialise over the course of the second half.

Total administrative expenses of US$10.2 million (2008 1H: US$18.4 million), reflect both the positive impact of the initiative to drive down overheads with the effects of the restructuring implemented earlier this year and the exchange rate impact of the strengthening US dollar.

The impairment of assets (US$2.6 million; 2008 1H: US$2.7 million) primarily relates to the Cuda-1 well. An insurance claim, for partial redrill costs and equipment lost down hole, should be finalised shortly and will potentially reduce this cost.

Excluding the mark-to-market loss of the hedges in place on Okoro and CI-11, Afren made an operating profit of US$7.7 million (2008 1H: loss of US$24.5 million). Including such mark-to-market losses, Afren made an operating loss of US$15.2 million (2008 1H: US$25.7million). 

The Company generated net cash from operations of US$98 million. In addition, US$62 million of debt was amortised over the period. Net debt has fallen from US$287.4 million at 30 December 2008 to US$194.9 million as at 30 June 2009, with gearing at 45% (compared with 82% at year end).

Derivative financial instruments

The loss on the derivative financial instruments relates to the hedge position taken out by Afren to protect against low oil prices for a proportion of its oil production on Okoro and CI-11, as required by the lenders. In cash terms, Afren has made a gain of US$11.7 million related to first half production, but, with the recovery of the oil price, the value of future positions has fallen. Under IAS 39, this movement in the fair value must be accounted for in the income statement and reflects the volatility highlighted in the 2008 accounts. The net value of the hedge position at the end of June 2009 was an asset of US$14.7 million (31 December 2008: US$49.5 million) following this fall in value.

Financing costs and currency gains

Net finance costs were US$21.6 million compared with US$0.8 million in the first half of 2008. The large increase reflects the additional debt assumed following the acquisition in Côte d'Ivoire in the second half of 2008, a higher drawdown on the Okoro facility over the period, and the capitalisation of the interest related to Okoro in the first half of 2008. This was partly offset by the fall in interest rates as USD Libor has fallen.

Foreign currency gains of US$1.5 million (2008 1H: US$0.4 million loss) reflects the increase in value of some Sterling deposits as the exchange rate has moved over the period.

Associated company investment and taxes

Afren invested a further £1.25 million in Gasol plc during the period, raising its equity interest from circa 2.3% to 21.7% as at 30 June 2009. Afren has accounted for Gasol as an associated company from the time of its investment in February 2009 when its equity share increased to 21.3% (having acquired 200 million shares at 0.5p per share). Afren took up its rights in a further Gasol equity issue in May 2009, with a £250,000 allocation at a share price of 3.55p per share. Both prices were at a discount to the market price preceding the investment. As such, Afren has accounted for its share of the Gasol results for the period since becoming an associate, amounting to a loss of US$0.5 million.

The income tax charge relates to tax paid as part of the government take in the Côte d'Ivoire CI-11 concession.

Overall, Afren reported a loss after tax of US$38.5 million (2008 1H: US$26.8 million).

Balance sheet

Total non-current assets stood at US$670.3 million as at 30 June 2009, compared with US$364.8 million as at 30 June 2008, and US$706.0 million as at 31 December 2008 (restated).

Reallocation of acquisition costs on Côte d'Ivoire assets

The 2008 annual report reflected our provisional estimates of the fair values of the assets acquired from Devon in September 2008. Following the receipt in March 2009 of the full data set relating to these assets, Afren has been able to reassess the reasonableness of these initial calculations. The technical analysis to date on the full data set has now been reviewed by Netherland and Sewell Associates (NSAI), and the analysis indicates that CI-01 has significantly greater reserves potential than originally envisaged but that CI-11 has less. Therefore, in accordance with the one year window allowed by IFRS to finalise fair value estimates, Afren has reallocated the value of the assets acquired between CI-11, the Lion Gas Plant and CI-01, resulting in a reclassification between intangible assets and PP&E in the 2008 balance sheet, and a consequent immaterial adjustment to the 2008 full year results in accordance with IFRS 3. Further details are provided in note 4 to the financial information.

Intangible assets

Since the start of the year, intangible assets have increased by US$43.5 million to US$257.4 million. This reflects the successful appraisal drilling on Ebok at the start of the year and the ongoing pre-development work, ahead of Field Development Plan submission in August 2009. On approval, the capital balance relating to Ebok (US$73.0 million as at 30 June 2009) will be transferred to property, plant and equipment. The other large movement in the period relates to the acquisition of an interest in the OPL310 licence offshore Nigeria, which was approved in the period (US$13.2 million). Other major components of the period end balance include CI-01 (US$101.5 million), La Noumbi (US$29.4 million), JDZ block 1 (US$17.5 million) and the Keta block (US$15.4 million).

Property, plant and equipment (PP&E)

PP&E includes oil and gas assets of US$395.8 million compared to US$465.6 million at the year end and US$295.2 million at 30 June 2008. Following the completion of the drilling on the Okoro development, there has been limited additional capital investment in the period and the reduction reflects the depreciation on the assets.

Current assets

Total current assets of US$253.9 million compare with US$216.2 million at year end and US$306.2 million as at 30 June 2008. Of this, cash or cash equivalents amounted to US$153.3 million (31 December 2008: US$117.7million; 30 June 2008: US$268.6 million). Of the total cash, balances relating to certain assets were restricted at 30 June 2009, amounting to around US$28.7 million, although the majority of these restrictions have subsequently been removed. 

In April 2009, Afren raised £84.8 million (US$126.3 million) before commissions and expenses by the placing of 265 million new ordinary shares of 1 penny each in the capital of the Company with institutional investors at 32 pence per share.

The movement in cash and cash equivalents in the period reflects the net cash receipts from operations (US$98.0 million) and the net receipts from the equity raise ($118.2 million), partly offset by the further investment in assets (US$104.3 million) and the repayments of part of the loans and associated financing costs (US$77.7 million).

The increase in trade and other receivables in the period (US$56.0 million at 31 December 2008 to US$74.1 million at 30 June 2009) reflects the recovery of the oil price and the higher priced cargoes lifted, but not paid for, as at 30 June 2009 compared with 31 December 2008.

The reduction in the derivative financial instruments (US$29.2 million at 31 December 2008 to US$12.1 million at 30 June 2009) reflects the increase in the oil price and the consequent uplift in the forward curve, thus reducing the value of Afren's hedge position going forward, as referred to above. Note some of the instruments are a liability as the price protected is below the market price as at 30 June 2009 and therefore these are reflected in the liabilities section.

Current liabilities

Total current liabilities have remained relatively flat in the period (US$265.9 million as at 30 June 2009 compared with US$257.0 million as at 31 December 2008). This reflects a fall in trade and other payables (from $145.8 million at 31 December 2008 to US$113.6 million as at 30 June 2009) as the Okoro project and the Ebok appraisal drilling completed, offset by an increase in the short term element of the borrowings (from US$111.2 million as at 31 December 2008 to US$148.8 million as at 30 June 2009). The latter increase is a reflection of a majority of Afren's current loans entering their repayment phase in the next 12 months, the most significant of which are the Okoro facility where US$100.2 million is due to be repaid in approximately equal parts in December 2009 and June 2010 and the Côte d'Ivoire facility where US$36.3 million is due, likewise approximately equally split between December 2009 and June 2010. In addition, US$4.0 million was repaid in July 2009 relating to the Côte d'Ivoire facility and the first tranche of the repayment on the FCMB US$50 million loan is due in the first quarter of 2010 (US$8.3 million).

Non current liabilities and net debt

Non-current liabilities have fallen from US$314.2 million at the beginning of the period to US$221.0 million reflecting the debt repayment schedule and reclassification to short term noted above. Net debt has fallen from US$287.4 million at 31 December 2008 to US$194.9 million as at 30 June 2009 and gearing is now at 45% compared to 82% at year end.

 

Going concern 

The group had cash and cash equivalents at 30 June of US$153.3 million and is expecting significant cash flow from existing production in Nigeria (Okoro) and Côte d'Ivoire (CI-11). During the remainder of 2009 and the first half of 2010 we estimate that we will be required to repay US$148.8 million of debt principal repayments. We have also recently commenced the appraisal and development of the Ebok field in Nigeria. During Q2-Q3 2009 the base case reserves and upside resources have significantly increased, and together with the potential appraisal and development of the broader Ebok - Okwok complex, following the acquisition of Okwok, the anticipated capital expenditure has subsequently increased. The Company has recently received an indicative signed term sheet for a loan facility of up to US$300 million (subject to confirmation of the reserves based cap). Although our current committed facilities are more than sufficient to meet our current committed expenditures, this facility will provide us with the financial flexibility, to maintain and even potentially accelerate the Ebok development programme.

Accordingly, based on our latest forecasts and projections taking into account reasonably possible changes in trading performance and the risks and uncertainties disclosed in the 2008 annual report, the Directors have concluded that there is a reasonable expectation that the group has adequate financial resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future and hence have adopted the going concern basis of accounting in preparing these interim condensed financial statements.

 

INDEPENDENT REVIEW REPORT TO AFREN PLC

We have been engaged by the company to review the condensed set of financial statements in the half-yearly financial report for the six months ended 30 June 2009 which comprises the condensed group income statement, the condensed group statement of comprehensive income, the condensed group balance sheet, the condensed group statement of changes in equity, the condensed group cash flow statement and related notes 1 to 7. We have read the other information contained in the half-yearly financial report and considered whether it contains any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the information in the condensed set of financial statements.

This report is made solely to the company in accordance with International Standard on Review Engagements (UK and Ireland) 2410 ''Review of Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity'' issued by the Auditing Practices Board. Our work has been undertaken so that we might state to the company those matters we are required to state to them in an independent review report and for no other purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the company, for our review work, for this report, or for the conclusions we have formed.

Directors' responsibilities

The half-yearly financial report is the responsibility of, and has been approved by, the directors. The directors are responsible for preparing the half-yearly financial report in accordance with the AIM Rules of the London Stock Exchange.

As disclosed in note 1, the annual financial statements of the group are prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European Union. The condensed set of financial statements included in this half-yearly financial report have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies the group intends to use in preparing its next annual financial statements.

Our responsibility

Our responsibility is to express to the Company a conclusion on the condensed set of financial statements in the half-yearly financial report based on our review.

Scope of Review 

We conducted our review in accordance with International Standard on Review Engagements (UK and Ireland) 2410, "Review of Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity" issued by the Auditing Practices Board for use in the United Kingdom. A review of interim financial information consists of making inquiries, primarily of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters, and applying analytical and other review procedures. A review is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK and Ireland) and consequently does not enable us to obtain assurance that we would become aware of all significant matters that might be identified in an audit. Accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion.

Conclusion

Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the condensed set of financial statements in the half-yearly financial report for the six months ended 30 June 2009 is not prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with the AIM Rules of the London Stock Exchange.

Deloitte LLP

Chartered Accountants 

London

24 September 2009

  Afren Plc

Condensed Group Income Statement for the six months to 30 June 2009

				Restated*
		6 months to	6 months to	year to
		30 June 2009	30 June 2008	31 December 2008
		Unaudited	Unaudited	Audited
	Notes	$000's	$000's	$000's
Revenue		155,162	-	42,501
Cost of sales		(134,630)	(3,454)	(70,537)
Gross profit/(loss)		20,532	(3,454)	(28,036)
Administrative expenses		(10,247)	(18,371)	(32,491)
Other operating income/(expenses)
- impairment of oil and gas assets		(2,552)	(2,669)	(38,212)
- derivative financial instruments		(22,894)	(1,160)	54,682
Operating loss		(15,161)	(25,654)	(44,057)
Investment revenue		301	2,546	5,286
Finance costs		(21,916)	(3,297)	(25,760)
Other gains and (losses)
- foreign currency gains/(losses)		1,486	(388)	(15,382)
- fair value of financial liabilities and financial assets		(1,656)	-	26,607
- impairment reversal/(charge) on available for sale investments		97	-	(2,296)
Share of loss of an associate		(520)	-	-
Loss before tax		(37,369)	(26,793)	(55,602)
Income tax expense		(1,162)	-	(520)
Loss after tax		(38,531)	(26,793)	(56,122)
Loss per share
Basic and diluted	2	7.3c	8.6c	15.0c

*See note 4

All operations were continuing throughout all periods.  

 

Condensed Group Statement of Comprehensive Income
For the six months to 30 June 2009
							Restated*
					6 months to	6 months to	Year to
					30 June 2009	30 June 2008	31 December 2008
					Unaudited	Unaudited	Audited
					$000's	$000's	$000's
Loss after tax					(38,531)	(26,793)	(56,122)
Redesignation of warrants as financial liabilities					-	-	(27,106)
Revaluation of available for sale investments					-	647	(472)
Exchange differences arising on consolidation					-	2,229	2,188
Total comprehensive loss attributable to equity holders of Afren plc					(38,531)	(23,917)	(81,512)

*See note 4

 

 Afren Plc

Condensed Group Balance Sheet as at 30 June 2009

			Restated*
	30 June 2009	30 June 2008	31 December 2008
	Unaudited	Unaudited	Audited
	US$000's	US$000's	US$000's
Assets
Non-current assets
Intangible assets	257,394	64,239	213,933
Property, plant and equipment
- Oil and gas assets	395,797	295,221	465,644
-Other	5,154	1,728	5,813
Prepayments	4,083	-	-
Derivative financial instruments	6,551	-	20,354
Available for sale investments	-	3,627	211
Investment in associate	1,361	-	-
	670,340	364,815	705,955
Current assets
Inventories	14,527	5,701	13,276
Trade and other receivables	74,091	31,878	56,030
Derivative financial instruments	12,052	-	29,161
Cash and cash equivalents	153,276	268,626	117,719
	253,946	306,205	216,186
Total assets	924,286	671,020	922,141
Liabilities
Current liabilities
Derivative financial instruments	(3,526)	-	-
Borrowings	(148,771)	(29,165)	(111,218)
Trade and other payables	(113,623)	(61,758)	(145,755)
	(265,920)	(90,923)	(256,973)
Net current (liabilities)/assets	(11,974)	215,282	(40,787)
Non-current liabilities
Provision for decommissioning	(21,298)	(3,994)	(20,276)
Borrowings	(199,357)	(181,099)	(293,946)
Convertible bonds	-	(70,906)	-
Derivative financial instruments	(363)	(4,143)	-
	(221,018)	(260,142)	(314,222)
Total liabilities	(486,938)	(351,065)	(571,195)
Net assets	437,348	319,955	350,946
Equity
Share capital	12,785	7,293	8,806
Share premium	561,182	374,367	446,958
Other reserves	20,669	21,541	18,173
Accumulated losses	(157,288)	(83,246)	(122,991)
Total equity	437,348	319,955	350,946

*See note 4

 

 

Afren Plc

Condensed Group Cash Flow Statement for the six months to 30 June 2009

			Restated*
	6 months to	6 months to	Year to
	30 June 2009	30 June 2008	31 December 2008
	Unaudited	Unaudited	Audited
	US$'000's	US$000's	US$000's
Operating loss for the year	(15,161)	(25,654)	(44,057)
Depreciation, depletion and amortisation	84,727	451	30,029
Derivative financial instruments losses/(gains)	22,894	1,070	(54,682)
Impairment of oil and gas assets	2,552	2,669	38,212
Provisions for inventories - spares	-	-	1,206
Share based payments charge	4,675	4,006	10,819
Operating cashflows before movements in working capital	99,687	(17,458)	(18,473)
Increase in trade and other operating receivables	(31,768)	(8,505)	(30,757)
Increase in trade and other operating payables	17,916	13,567	22,498
Derivative financial instruments realised gains/(losses)	11,907	-	(817)
Currency translation adjustments	211	156	737
Net cash generated/(used) in operating activities	97,953	(12,240)	(26,812)
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
-Other	(585)	(625)	(5,115)
- Oil and gas assets	(44,161)	(134,525)	(224,297)
Exploration and evaluation expenditure	(50,457)	(12,432)	(62,396)
Expenditure on pending acquisitions	-	(15,943)	-
Increase in inventories - spare parts	(1,250)	-	(2,709)
Purchase of investments	(1,815)	(1,501)	(1,501)
Investment revenue	204	2,401	5,349
Completion payment on 2008 acquired subsidiaries	(6,198)	-	-
Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired	-	-	(168,749)
Net cash used in investing activities	(104,262)	(162,625)	(459,418)
Issue of ordinary share capital	126,664	237,563	238,313
Costs of share issues	(8,461)	(7,513)	(7,663)
Proceeds from borrowings	-	126,296	362,502
Borrowing costs	-	-	(11,597)
Incentive paid on early conversion of bonds	-	-	(9,332)
Repayment of borrowings	(62,072)	-	(29,032)
Interest and financing fees paid	(15,631)	(5,857)	(16,282)
Net cash provided by financing activities	40,500	350,489	526,909
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents	34,191	175,624	40,687
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	117,719	91,783	91,783
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes	1,366	1,219	(14,743)
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	153,276	268,626	117,719

*See note 4

Afren Plc

Condensed Group Statement of Changes in Equity for the six months ended 30 June 2009 (unaudited)

	Share capital	Share premium account	Other reserves	Accumulated losses	Total equity
	$000's	$000's	$000's	$000's	$000's
Group
At 1 January 2008	5,365	146,245	16,872	(58,666)	109,816
Issue of share capital	1,928	235,635	-	-	237,563
Deductible costs of share issues	-	(7,513)	-	-	(7,513)
Share based payments	-	-	3,946	-	3,946
Other share based payments	-	-	60	-	60
Reserves transfer relating to convertible bonds	-	-	(1,532)	1,532	-
Reserves transfer on exercise of options	-	-	(359)	359	-
Reserves transfer on exercise of warrants	-	-	(322)	322	-
Revaluation of available for sale investments	-	-	647	-	647
Exchange differences arising on translation	-	-	2,229	-	2,229
Net loss for the period	-	-	-	(26,793)	(26,793)
Balance at 30 June 2008	7,293	374,367	21,541	(83,246)	319,955
Issue of share capital	93	2,902	-	-	2,995
Deductible costs of share issues	-	(150)	-	-	(150)
Issue of loan notes, net of costs	-	-	7,350	-	7,350
Share based payments	-	-	6,755	-	6,755
Other share based payments	-	-	58	-	58
Reserves transfer relating to convertible bonds	-	-	(257)	257	-
Reserves transfer on exercise of options	-	-	(3,168)	3,168	-
Shares to be issued	-	-	319	-	319
Conversion of bonds into shares	1,420	69,839	(9,500)	9,500	71,259
Redesignation of warrants as financial liabilities	-	-	(3,395)	(23,711)	(27,106)
Exchange differences arising on translation	-	-	(41)	-	(41)
Other movements	-	-	(1,489)	370	(1,119)
Net loss for the period (restated- note 4)	-	-	-	(29,329)	(29,329)
Balance at 1 January 2009 (restated- note 4)	8,806	446,958	18,173	(122,991)	350,946
Issue of share capital	3,979	122,685	-	-	126,664
Deductible costs of share issues	-	(8,461)	-	-	(8,461)
Shares to be issued	-	-	2,055	-	2,055
Share based payments for services	-	-	4,618	-	4,618
Other share based payments	-	-	57	-	57
Reserves transfer relating to loan notes	-	-	(1,136)	1,136	-
Reserves transfer on exercise of options	-	-	(3,098)	3,098	-
Net loss for the period	-	-	-	(38,531)	(38,531)
Balance at 30 June 2009	12,785	561,182	20,669	(157,288)	437,348

Afren Plc

Notes to the interim financial statements (unaudited)

1. Basis of accounting and presentation of financial information

These condensed interim consolidated financial statements are for the six months ended 30 June 2009. The interim financial report, which is unaudited and does not constitute statutory accounts as defined by the Companies Act, has been prepared in accordance with the recognition and measurement criteria of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) adopted for use in the European Union. The accounting policies and methods of computation used are consistent with those used in the Group annual report for the year ended 31 December 2008, except for accounting for investment in Gasol plc and the adoption of new standards as of 1 January 2009, noted below:

 

The financial information for the year ended 31 December 2008 does not constitute statutory accounts as defined in section 240 of the Companies Act 1985. A copy of the statutory accounts for the year has been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The auditors report on these accounts was not qualified, did not draw attention by way of emphasis of matter and did not contain statements under section 237(2) or (3) of the Companies Act 1985.

These condensed interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis of accounting for the reasons set out in the Going Concern section of the Financial Review.

2. Loss per share

The calculation of the basic loss per share is based on the loss for the period after taxation of US$38,531,000 (2008 1H - US$26,793,000) and a weighted average number of shares in issue of 529,433,254 (2008 1H - 313,136,157). As there is a loss for all periods presented there is no difference between the basic and diluted loss per share.

Notes to the interim financial statements (unaudited) (cont'd)

3. Operating Segments

For management purposes, the Group is organised in to operations geographically. The adoption of IFRS8 has not led to a change in the reportable segments, compared with those in the 2008 annual report. The 2008 1H interim report included Nigeria within the other West Africa segment and the comparatives below have been restated accordingly.
Six months to June 2009				Nigeria	Côte d'Ivoire	Other West Africa	Unallocated	Consolidated
				$000's	$000's	$000's	$000's	$000's
Sales revenue by origin				137,655	17,507	-	-	155,162
Operating profit/(loss) before derivative financial instruments				21,910	(2,396)	(2,560)	(9,221)	7,733
Derivative financial instruments losses				(9,817)	(13,077)	-	-	(22,894)
Segment result				12,093	(15,473)	(2,560)	(9,221)	(15,161)
Investment revenue								301
Finance costs								(21,916)
Other gains and losses - impairment reversal on available for sale investment								97
Other gains and losses - fair value of financial assets & liabilities								(1,656)
Other gains and losses - foreign currency gains								1,486
Share of loss of an associate								(520)
Loss before tax								(37,369)
Segment assets				520,684	207,755	76,102	119,745	924,286
Segment liabilities				(280,871)	(153,312)	(10,653)	(42,102)	(486,938)
Capital additions- oil and gas assets				10,550	214	-	-	10,764
Capital additions- exploration and evaluation				39,736	448	5,181	-	45,365
Capital additions- other				423	13	-	128	565
Depletion, depreciation and amortisation				(75,068)	(9,215)	-	(443)	(84,727)
Impairment of oil and gas assets				-	-	(2,552)	-	(2,552)
Impairment reversal of available for sale investments				-	-	-	97	97
Year to December 2008 (restated- see note 4)				Nigeria	Côte d'Ivoire	Other West Africa	Unallocated	Consolidated
				$000's	$000's	$000's	$000's	$000's
Sales revenue by origin				37,117	5,384	-	-	42,501
Operating loss before derivative financial instruments				(33,458)	(7,445)	(29,013)	(28,823)	(98,739)
Derivative financial instruments gains				13,338	41,344	-	-	54,682
Segment result				(20,120)	33,899	(29,013)	(28,823)	(44,057)
Investment revenue								5,286
Finance costs								(25,760)
Other gains and losses - Impairment charge on available for sale investment								(2,296)
Other gains and losses- fair value of financial liabilities								26,607
Other gains and losses - foreign currency losses								(15,382)
Loss before tax								(55,602)
Segment assets				538,840	238,034	80,899	64,368	922,141
Segment liabilities				(351,655)	(160,628)	(18,008)	(40,905)	(571,195)
Capital additions - oil and gas assets				280,076	107	-	-	280,183
Capital additions- oil and gas assets (acquisition of subsidiaries)				-	79,304	-	-	79,304
Capital additions - exploration and evaluation				51,866	387	43,566	-	95,819
Capital additions- exploration and evaluation (acquisition of subsidiaries)				-	100,626	-	-	100,626
Capital additions - other				2,703	561	-	2,293	5,557
Depletion, depreciation and amortisation				(25,295)	(4,092)	-	(643)	(30,030)
Impairment of oil and gas assets				(9,222)	-	(28,990)	-	(38,212)
Impairment of available for sale investments				-	-	-	(2,296)	(2,296)
Notes to the interim financial statements (unaudited) (cont'd)
3. Operating Segments (continued)
Six months to June 2008				Nigeria	Côte d'Ivoire	Other West Africa	Unallocated	Consolidated
				$000's	$000's	$000's	$000's	$000's
Operating loss before derivative financial instruments				(4,798)	-	(2,637)	(17,059)	(24,494)
Derivative financial instruments losses				(1,160)	-	-	-	(1,160)
Segment result				(5,958)	-	(2,637)	(17,059)	(25,654)
Investment revenue								2,546
Finance costs								(3,297)
Other gains and losses - foreign currency losses								(388)
Loss before and after tax								(26,793)
Segment assets				362,996	-	81,219	226,805	671,020
Segment liabilities				(256,748)	-	(8,462)	(85,855)	(351,065)
Capital additions- oil and gas assets				154,295	-	-	-	154,295
Capital additions- exploration and evaluation				3,497	-	13,755	-	17,252
Capital additions- other				91	-	-	543	634
Depreciation				211	-	-	240	451
All sales made during 2009 and 2008 related to major customers, which are defined as having greater than 10% of total turnover.

4. Reallocation of prior year Côte d'lvoire provisional fair value allocation

The Group completed the acquisition of Devon Energy Corporation's interests in Côte d'Ivoire, comprising a 47.96% working interest and operatorship of the producing Block C1-11, a direct 65% interest (with rights to additional 15% interest) and operatorship in the undeveloped Block C1-01 and a 100% interest in the onshore Lion Gas Plant (Lion GPL) on 25 September 2008. The provisional fair values of oil and gas assets acquired were finalised during 2009, to reflect additional information which has become available concerning conditions that existed at the date of acquisition, in accordance with the provisions of IFRS 3 - Business Combinations. The resulting changes to the 2008 financial statements are set out in the following table:

			Provisional fair value as previously reported
					Fair value adjustments		Fair value as restated
Oil and gas assets*			$000's		$000's		$000's
CI-01			35,502		65,124		100,626
CI-11			89,850		(38,316)		51,534
Lion GPL			54,578		(26,808)		27,770
			179,930		-		179,930

* CI-01 is recorded within intangible assets; CI-11 and Lion GPL are within property, plant and equipment.

The changes in fair values of CI-01 have arisen following completion of both internal and independent reviews of pre-acquisition data. The review by Netherland Sewell and Associates (NSAI) indicated the existence of higher commercial reserves than previously thought. In respect of CI-11 the changes have arisen following adoption of a recently completed NSAI reserves case instead of the previously used internal technical case. The changes in fair value of Lion GPL arose following adjustment to internal pricing of fuel gas purchased from CI-11 and the reduction in expected throughput upon adoption of NSAI case for CI-11. A reduction in depreciation, depletion and amortisation of $0.4 million charged in second half 2008 has arisen following the above fair value changes and has also been reflected in the 2008 full year comparatives in these interim financial statements.

 

5. Subsequent events

On 3 July 2009 Afren announced it had allotted conditional to admission 2,701,138 ordinary shares of 1p each with a market value approximately £1.35 million to Energy Investment Holdings, representing a milestone payment in relation to the Ebok project.

On 11 August 2009 Afren announced that it had signed a drilling contract for the development of Ebok field, offshore Nigeria.

On 25 August 2009 Afren announced that it had signed a farm-in agreement with Addax Petroleum for the acquisition of a 28% interest in Okwok field, offshore Nigeria.

 

6. Dividend

The directors do not recommend the payment of a dividend.

 

7. Approval of accounts

These interim accounts (unaudited) were approved by the Board of Directors on 24 September 2009.

ENDIR IFFVFAVISFIA

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Related Shares:

AFR.L