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Obeid Lemna

Obeid Saitabau Lemna

School of Mines and Geosciences

Geosciences

Biography

I am a Lecturer in Geophysics at the Department of Geosciences, School of Mines and Geosciences, University of Dar es Salaam. I completed my PhD at the University of Aberdeen in 2020, where my doctoral research focused on the tectonics and geodynamic evolution of the Rukwa Rift Basin, part of the western branch of the East African Rift System in southwest Tanzania. My work primarily involved using potential field methods and topographic data to analyse pre-existing basement structures and the geometry and architecture of the Rukwa Rift Basin.

With a robust foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of geosciences, I have developed expertise in integrating near-surface geophysical methods, field work and seismic datasets for investigating active tectonics and basin analysis.

Beyond my research, I have made significant contributions to the construction industry, particularly in Dam construction. I have been actively involved in the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP), a strategic mega project in the country. My experience in this field has provided me with valuable insights into geological and geotechnical aspects of Dam construction, as well as skills in Contract Management (FIDIC Silver Book, 1999) for mega and strategic infrastructure projects.

Research Interest

  • Geophysical responses of mineralised terranes
  • Strain accommodation, transfer, and deformational styles in early stages of continental rifts
  • Processing and interpretation of aeromagnetic and gravity datasets
  • Structural geophysics
  • Geothermal and hydrocarbon exploration

Contacts

Email:

Projects

Active Fault Database of Tanzania

Publications

  1. Anudu, G.K., Ofoegbu, C.O., Obrike, S.E., Lemna, O.S., 2025. Imaging upper lithospheric structures of the Benue Trough and adjoining basement areas in Nigeria and Cameroon from satellite gravity data. J. African Earth Sci. 222, 105488. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jafrearsci.2024.105488
  2. Selestin, E., Kiswaka, E.B., Mshiu, E.E., Lemna, O.S., 2024. Distribution of magmatic intrusions and key petroleum system elements in the Pliocene–Holocene Pangani Rift Basin, Northeastern Tanzania. Pet. Sci. Technol. 2, 1–20. https://doi.org/10.1080/10916466.2024.2366461
  3. Mvile, B.N., Kiswaka, E.B., Osinowo, O.O., Nalogwa, M.M., Mshiu, E.E., Lemna, O.S., 2023. Geophysical analysis of the Tanga Basin, Northern Coastal Tanzania, based on gravity, aeromagnetic and 2D seismic data: implication for petroleum prospectivity. J. Sediment. Environ. 8, 139–152. https://doi.org/10.1007/s43217-023-00126-w
  4. Lemna, O.S., Stephenson, R.A., Cornwell, D.G., 2019. The role of pre-existing Precambrian structures in the development of Rukwa Rift Basin, southwest Tanzania. J. African Earth Sci. 150, 607–625. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jafrearsci.2018.09.015
  5. Lemna, O.S., Bachtadse, V., Kirscher, U., Rolf, C., Petersen, N., 2016. Paleomagnetism of the Jurassic Transantarctic Mountains revisited - Evidence for large dispersion of apparent polar wander within less than 3 Myr. Gondwana Res. 31, 124–134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gr.2015.01.002