Oil & Gas

ZANZIBAR has taken a decisive step toward reviving its oil and gas exploration activities after the Zanzibar Petroleum Development Corporation (ZPDC) signed a contract with Africa Geophysical Services (AGS) to conduct a 3D seismic survey. Speaking after the signing, the Minister for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Masoud Ali Mohammed, said the agreement reflects President Dr Hussein Mwinyi’s strong commitment to positioning the blue economy as a key driver of Zanzibar’s economic growth. He described the Blue Economy and Fisheries Policy as a parent framework aimed at harnessing marine and land resources to accelerate socio-economic development across the islands.

The minister stressed that the signing of the contract demonstrates the government’s determination to move from policy to practical implementation of the blue economy agenda. He explained that the 3D seismic survey will generate critical geological data to guide Zanzibar’s next steps in oil and gas exploration, including decisions on potential drilling. The survey will cover both North and South Unguja, and residents in the affected areas have been urged to cooperate fully to ensure smooth execution of the exercise.

While oil and gas exploration remains a priority, the government continues to advance other marine-based sectors to ensure sustainable and diversified economic growth. The minister called on AGS to work closely with local institutions to maximize knowledge transfer and long-term benefits for Zanzibar, emphasizing that resource development must go hand in hand with national capacity building.

ZPDC Managing Director Mikidad Ali Rashid described the agreement as a major milestone in Zanzibar’s long-standing hydrocarbon assessment efforts. He noted that previous 2D seismic surveys conducted with RasGas identified specific areas requiring more detailed 3D analysis, adding that the new survey will utilize modern and flexible technologies rather than relying solely on explosives, with completion expected by February 2027. After the survey, ZPDC will determine whether to proceed with drilling or seek strategic partnerships, stating clearly that any decision will be guided strictly by scientific evidence.

AGS Tanzania General Manager Shaun Graham expressed confidence in the project, saying the company will deploy advanced seismic technology to support Zanzibar’s exploration ambitions. He added that AGS is committed to strengthening ZPDC’s technical capacity to ensure that any discovered resources are used effectively for national development.