Energy Minister, Deogratius Ndejembi, has urged the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) to ensure the timely completion of the Ntorya–Madimba gas pipeline by September 2026.
The pipeline will transport natural gas from the Ntorya gas field to the Madimba Gas Processing Plant in Mtwara.
Speaking on February 27, 2026, during the foundation stone ceremony for the pipeline which is already 35 percent complete Minister Ndejembi said the project will expand domestic gas use and boost economic growth.
“We have set a clear target: by September, the wells must be producing gas and connected to the main Madimba pipeline. There should be no delays. TPDC must maintain strong oversight on site to ensure progress. Tanzanians are eager to see development on the ground,” he said.
The minister called on TPDC experts to carry out all activities with high quality and within the contract timelines.
He stressed that the project will grow the gas sector, increase electricity generation, attract investors, and support industries that will create jobs for Tanzanians.
He also urged TPDC to speed up exploration and development of new gas wells to secure adequate supply, noting that the country already has gas transport infrastructure.
He encouraged the corporation to implement social responsibility projects in collaboration with local communities, including building classrooms, drilling water wells, and addressing other local needs.
Minister Ndejembi highlighted that the government, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan and guided by the National Development Vision 2050, aims to expand gas availability and use, a step that will support the production of 8,000 megawatts of electricity by 2030.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary for Petroleum and Gas, Dr. James Mataragio, said the Ntorya block will significantly increase gas supply to meet growing industrial demand.
The pipeline project was contracted on July 3, 2025, to China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Co. Ltd. and China Petroleum Technology & Development Corporation at a cost of USD 46.8 million. The project is expected to be completed by September 30, 2026.
