Oil & Gas

Preparations for drilling three natural gas wells in the Mnazi Bay Block in Mtwara Region are more than 90 percent complete, with the project expected to commence early this month. The drilling programme is considered critical to boosting Tanzania’s natural gas production and supporting the national economy.

The update was provided by Engineer Felista Ndabita of the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) during an official inspection visit by the Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA). The visit was aimed at monitoring project implementation and ensuring compliance with upstream regulatory requirements.

Engineer Ndabita said the drilling rig has already been installed and is ready to begin operations, with remaining equipment and supporting infrastructure nearing completion. She noted that drilling is expected to start on February 9, 2026, marking a key milestone in the development of the Mnazi Bay Block.

PURA geologist Ebeneza Mollel said the authority will continue to closely monitor the project to ensure increased production targets are achieved. Currently, the block has five producing wells delivering between 90 and 100 million cubic feet of gas per day, with additional output expected to support electricity generation, industrial activity, household use, and gas-powered vehicles.