By the Respondent Reporter
Karatu, Tanzania — The Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) is continuing the implementation of a large-scale strategic oil and natural gas exploration project in the Eyasi–Wembere block, spanning five regions.
The project covers parts of Simiyu, Singida, Arusha, Shinyanga and Tabora regions, with exploration activities currently underway in several districts, including Meatu, Iramba, Mkalama, Karatu, Ngorongoro, Kishapu, and Igunga.
The overall project implementation has reached approximately 69 per cent, with total costs amounting to TZS 28 billion, aiming to diversify Tanzania’s energy mix and support long-term socio-economic development.
Speaking to journalists at the project’s exploration camp in Endesh village, Karatu District, TPDC Project Manager and geophysicist Sindi Maduhu said the project is being implemented in line with the Petroleum Act of 2015, which mandates TPDC to conduct exploration and development of the country’s oil and natural gas resources.
Maduhu said TPDC is currently executing the second phase of the project, which involves 2D seismic data acquisition using controlled explosives, a method necessitated by the geographical and environmental conditions of the remaining survey areas around Lake Eyasi, Kitangiri, and surrounding wetlands.
“The second phase officially began in July 2024. About 47 per cent of the work was carried out using vibroseis trucks, and from June 2025, we moved into lake-adjacent areas where explosive-based methods were required,” Maduhu said.
The project has delivered direct benefits to local communities, including employment opportunities for nearly 1,000 young people from surrounding areas, along with corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
However, Maduhu noted that the project has faced several challenges, particularly the effects of climate variability, which have altered hydrological conditions in some areas.
Locations initially expected to contain water have dried up, rendering certain specialised equipment unusable and increasing both operational complexity and costs.
Despite these challenges, TPDC said it remains committed to implementing the project in accordance with professional standards, safety requirements, and environmental protection measures, to ensure national objectives for oil and gas exploration and sector development are achieved for the broader benefit of the country.