Energy Minister Deogratius Ndejembi has called on the Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA) to develop and implement robust strategies to accelerate oil and natural gas exploration across the country.
Minister Ndejembi made the remarks on November 24 during a meeting with PURA management in Dar es Salaam, emphasizing the need for clear and actionable plans to ensure timely results in exploration activities, which are often time-consuming.
“I expect PURA to design and execute strategies that will boost exploration in various blocks, including Ruvu, Mkuranga, and Tanga. These strategies should clearly outline the steps required to achieve the expected outcomes,” he said.
He also urged PURA to continue providing effective advice to the Ministry on creating a competitive investment environment in the upstream petroleum sector. This comes ahead of the fifth licensing round for oil and gas exploration blocks, where the country aims to attract strategic investors while safeguarding national interests.
“Before the fifth licensing round, I expect PURA to advise the Ministry on measures to make the investment climate friendly for targeted investors, ensuring that national interests are protected. I want this guidance urgently so that we can implement it promptly,” he stressed.
Minister Ndejembi further noted that successful execution of the fifth licensing round will not only increase government revenue but also leave a positive mark on the sector’s development.
On his part, PURA Director General Charles Sangweni thanked Minister Ndejembi and the Ministry leadership for taking time to meet with the agency’s management. He pledged that PURA will continue to execute its mandate effectively, contributing to sector goals and the national Vision 2050.