RESEARCH ON EYASI WEMBERE BASIN ROCKS CONFIRMS POTENTIAL OIL DISCOVERY





📌 Dr. Mataragio inspects research activities and gives directives to TPDC/AGS

📌 Second phase of exploration to be completed by April 2026

📌 90 percent of project implementers are Tanzanians


Research being conducted under the strategic Eyasi Wembere Project, which aims to explore oil and gas within the East African Rift Valley, has shown great potential for the discovery of petroleum and natural gas deposits in the basin.


This was revealed during a visit by the Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Dr. James Mataragio, who toured the project site in Karatu District, Arusha Region, to inspect the progress of implementation.


> “Exploration work for this project began in 2015. We have been collecting various geological data related to the presence of oil and gas. After analysis, the data confirmed that the basin contains rock formations capable of storing hydrocarbons,” said Dr. Mataragio.




He further explained that the initial phase of the study, which began in 2015, involved aerial surveys and shallow drilling at a cost of approximately TSh 8 billion.


Dr. Mataragio added that the first phase of seismic exploration, covering 260 kilometers, cost around TSh 10 billion.


Meanwhile, the ongoing second phase of exploration will cover 914 kilometers at a cost of TSh 43 billion, of which 430 kilometers (47%) have already been completed.


Speaking about the anticipated benefits once oil is discovered in the area, Dr. Mataragio noted that it will ensure energy security and reduce the country’s dependence on imported petroleum.


> “This will also help the nation save foreign exchange currently spent on importing oil,” he added.




Dr. Mataragio also highlighted that since the project began in 2015, about 90 percent of those implementing it are Tanzanians, reflecting the government’s commitment to building local capacity.


Following his inspection, Dr. Mataragio directed the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) and the contractor, African Geographical Services (AGS), to ensure the project is completed before April 2026, emphasizing that work should continue even during the rainy season.


On his part, Paschal Njiko, TPDC’s Director of Exploration, Development, and Production, said TPDC is collaborating with the local contractor AGS in conducting the research and will ensure the timely completion of the second phase as instructed.


Meanwhile, Salum Haji, Chairman of AGS, affirmed the company’s commitment to completing the project on schedule, recognizing its importance to the nation’s economic growth.


One of the project beneficiaries, Biru Benjamini, stated:


> “Through this project, we young people who were previously unemployed have gained jobs and valuable skills.”




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