The Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) has handed over a modern Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion workshop worth TZS 1.52 billion to the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), a move expected to strengthen Tanzania’s clean energy transition while equipping young engineers with practical industry skills.
The facility, officially handed over on Thursday, is designed to support the growing adoption of CNG as an alternative transport fuel and serve as a training hub for students and professionals in the natural gas sector.
TPDC’s Director of Planning and Investment, Mr. Derick Moshi, who represented the corporation’s Managing Director during the handover ceremony, said the project reflects the government’s commitment to promoting affordable and environmentally friendly energy solutions.
He said the workshop will not only provide vehicle conversion services but also help develop a new generation of local experts capable of supporting the country’s expanding natural gas industry.
“The completion and handover of this workshop marks an important step in promoting the use of Compressed Natural Gas in Tanzania. In addition to offering CNG conversion services, the facility will provide practical training opportunities for engineering students, helping to build local technical capacity,” Mr. Moshi said.
He noted that the project is part of a cooperation framework between TPDC and UDSM established through a land lease agreement signed in 2022.
According to TPDC, the workshop is equipped with modern technology for installing CNG systems in vehicles, conducting safety inspections and carrying out maintenance services.
The facility is expected to improve access to CNG services while helping motorists reduce fuel costs.
The investment comes at a time when Tanzania is intensifying efforts to expand the use of natural gas in transport as part of broader initiatives to promote cleaner and more affordable energy sources.
Receiving the facility on behalf of UDSM, Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Bernadeta Kilian described the workshop as a valuable addition to the university’s infrastructure and a catalyst for innovation and research.
She said the facility will provide students with hands-on experience that aligns with industry demands, helping to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical application.
“Receiving this workshop is a significant milestone for the University of Dar es Salaam. It will enhance teaching, research and innovation while preparing students with the practical skills needed in today’s job market,” Prof. Kilian said.
She added that the university would continue collaborating with TPDC on research and technology development aimed at improving the utilization of Tanzania’s natural gas resources.
Located within the CNG Mother Station at UDSM, the workshop is expected to become an important centre for CNG services, technical training and knowledge exchange among stakeholders in the transport and energy sectors.
The project highlights TPDC’s continued investment in clean energy infrastructure and its efforts to support the government’s agenda of expanding access to safe, affordable and sustainable energy while strengthening the role of higher learning institutions in national development.
