The US is committed to reducing instances of gas flaring throughout Africa, secretary of state Hillary Clinton confirmed during a meeting with the Angolan foreign minister Assuncao Afonso dos Anjos.

Speaking in Luanda, Ms Clinton said that the US is also working to help recapture gas released to prevent excessive pressure buildups in order to help protect the environment and make best commercial use of the continent's natural resources.

Gas flaring is a particularly pronounced problem in Nigeria, where gas pressure frequently exceeds pipeline capacity and is burnt off, releasing emissions into the atmosphere.

During her meeting, Ms Clinton also insisted that the US is also investing in the development of alternative technologies such as hydroelectric power, in addition to protecting natural resources in the Congo Basin, which is known as a "carbon sink".

She added that the Obama administration will also look to continue development of the natural assets in the Gulf of Guinea, which holds the largest oil reserves outside of the Middle East.

Getenergy exploration and production news