Oil & Gas

The Director General of the Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA), Mr. Charles Sangweni, stated that the natural gas sector and the agriculture sector are closely interconnected, and if these sectors are properly linked, they will boost economic productivity.

Sangweni made these remarks on August 7, 2025, during a visit to the Nane Nane International Agricultural Exhibition ongoing in Dodoma city.

He highlighted that the natural gas produced in the country can be used as a raw material to produce ammonia, a chemical used to manufacture various types of fertilizers including urea. He also explained that the use of natural gas in vehicles has helped reduce operating costs, so using natural gas-powered vehicles to transport agricultural, livestock, and fishing products will help lower transportation expenses.

On the other hand, Sangweni noted that agriculture remains a vital pillar in implementing oil and natural gas projects by providing skilled professionals who work on these projects within the country. However, despite agriculture’s important role, challenges remain, including international energy companies demanding agricultural products of high quality and standards that only a few Tanzanian service providers currently meet. Nevertheless, Sangweni emphasized that PURA, in collaboration with various stakeholders, continues to make deliberate efforts to ensure the required standards and quality are met for the broader economic benefit.