By Business Insider Reporter
Tanzania’s ambition to become a regional leader in natural gas production has received a major boost, following encouraging signs of gas deposits in the Lindi–Mtwara exploration block, located in the southern part of the country.
According to preliminary findings from an ongoing geological survey, natural gas leaks have been detected in water wells in Mnyundo and Mpapura villages – a promising indication of potential reserves beneath the East African Rift Basin.
The survey, covering 48 villages across 736 square kilometres, includes 40 villages in Mtwara District Council and eight in Mtama District Council, forming part of the government’s nationwide drive to expand the search for domestic energy resources.
Government confirms promising indicators
During an inspection tour of ongoing oil and gas projects in Mtwara, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy, Dr. James Mataragio, said the findings show a strong likelihood of commercial gas deposits in the area.
“Based on seismic data collected so far, we estimate up to a 32 percent probability of discovering natural gas within this block,” Dr. Mataragio stated.
He noted that demand for natural gas is rising rapidly in Tanzania’s industrial, household, and transport sectors, making new discoveries crucial for sustaining the country’s long-term energy goals under the Tanzania Vision 2050 development agenda.
Boosting domestic gas production
Dr. Mataragio also visited the Mnazi Bay Gas Enhancement Project, which is currently 68 perc ent complete. The project involves three gas wells – two of which will boost production by an estimated 45 million cubic feet per day, while the third is dedicated to further exploration.
He instructed the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) to ensure all ongoing projects are completed on schedule and within budget.
“These developments are part of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision to ensure every Tanzanian has access to clean, affordable, and reliable energy,” Dr. Mataragio added.
Energy as a catalyst for investment
Mtwara Regional Commissioner, Col. Patrick Sawala, hailed the ongoing exploration and production efforts, describing natural gas as a major driver of economic and social progress in the region.
“For us in Mtwara, energy is both a development and security pillar. Natural gas projects have attracted investors, created jobs, and spurred business activities across our communities,” he said.
The Mnazi Bay and Lindi–Mtwara projects form part of Tanzania’s broader ambition to harness its estimated 57 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, positioning the country as a key energy exporter to the region and beyond.
Community benefits and local participation
At the village level, residents are already witnessing tangible benefits. Mr. Selemani Hassani, Chairperson of Mwanamawa Village, said the project has improved local infrastructure and provided jobs for hundreds of residents.
“Through this project, we have seen the construction of access roads and small-scale infrastructure that ease daily activities. Many young people have secured short-term employment, helping to improve household incomes,” Mr. Hassani said.
So far, more than 1,200 temporary jobs have been created for Mtwara residents as part of seismic data collection activities in the Lindi–Mtwara block.
Tanzania’s rising energy ambitions
The new findings reaffirm Tanzania’s strong potential to become a regional gas hub, supplying energy to domestic industries, neighbouring countries and global markets through future liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports.
The government is already in advanced talks with multinational energy firms to revive the long-awaited LNG project in Lindi, which is expected to attract over US$ 40 billion in investment once finalised.
With continued exploration and new discoveries, Tanzania is laying the groundwork for a self-sufficient and export-driven energy economy – one that promises to light homes, power industries, and transform livelihoods across the nation. As Dr. Mataragio concluded, “Natural gas is not just an energy source – it’s the fuel for Tanzania’s next phase of economic transformation.”
