Preliminary studies in the Lindi–Mtwara gas block, spanning 48 villages across roughly 736 square kilometers – 40 in Mtwara District Council and 8 in Mtama District Council – have revealed promising signs of natural gas.
Villages such as Mnyundo and Mpapura have already shown gas traces in water wells, signaling potential for future exploration and development.
Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy, Dr. James Mataragio, who recently inspected gas and oil projects in Mtwara, said the initial findings indicate a high probability of commercially viable gas in the area.
“Based on seismic data collected earlier, we estimate up to a 32 percent likelihood of gas in this block,” Dr. Mataragio said.
He added that rising demand for gas in industries, households, and transport sectors underscores the government’s commitment to accelerating exploration and production in line with the National Development Vision 2050.
During the visit, Dr. Mataragio also reviewed the Mnazi Bay gas production enhancement project, which is currently 68 percent complete.
The project includes three wells, with two slated to increase gas output to an average of 45 million cubic feet per day.
The third well is dedicated to further exploration within the block. He instructed the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) to ensure all projects are completed on schedule.
Mtwara Regional Commissioner, Colonel Patrick Sawala, said natural gas has become a key driver for investment in the region, spurring economic and social activities.
“For Mtwara, energy projects are a foundation for growth and community security. I commend TPDC and partners for implementing these projects, which are creating jobs for local residents,” said Colonel Sawala.
TPDC’s Director of Exploration, Development, and Production of Oil and Gas, Geologist Paschal Njiko, emphasized that the corporation will continue closely supervising contractors to guarantee timely completion within budget.
Local communities are already reaping benefits. Mwanamawa Village Chairman, Selemani Hassani, said the project has created employment opportunities and improved local infrastructure.
“Through this project, small access roads have been built, easing social and economic activities. Residents have also secured jobs that help boost household incomes,” he said.
So far, over 1,200 temporary jobs have been generated for Mtwara residents through seismic survey activities in the Lindi–Mtwara block, highlighting how natural gas exploration is directly improving livelihoods while attracting investors to the region.