SIGNS OF NATURAL GAS DISCOVERED IN LINDI–MTWARA BLOCK.




📍 Comprehensive exploration continues in the Lindi–Mtwara Block

📍 Dr. Mataragio inspects project progress, orders timely completion

📍 Also visits Mnazi Bay gas production expansion project

📍 Mtwara RC says natural gas attracts investors

📍 Village Chairperson highlights benefits to the community including jobs and infrastructure


Ongoing exploration in the Lindi–Mtwara Block, located in Mtwara Region, has revealed signs of natural gas, particularly in the villages of Mnyundo and Mpapura, where some water wells were found to emit traces of natural gas.


The exploration covers a total of 48 villages within an area of approximately 736 square kilometers — 40 villages in Mtwara District Council and 8 villages in Mtama District Council.


During his inspection tour of oil and gas projects in Mtwara Region, the Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy, Dr. James Mataragio, stated that preliminary findings indicate a significant likelihood of natural gas deposits in the area.


“Based on seismic data collected earlier, we have determined there is about a 32 percent probability of finding gas within this block,” said Dr. Mataragio.


He noted that demand for natural gas continues to rise across various sectors — including industry, households, and transportation — prompting the government to intensify exploration and development of energy sources in line with the National Development Vision 2050.


During the same visit, Dr. Mataragio also inspected the Mnazi Bay Gas Production Expansion Project, which is currently 68 percent complete in its preparatory phase.


The Mnazi Bay project involves three natural gas wells, and the government expects to increase production by an average of 45 million cubic feet per day from two of the wells, while the third well will be used for further exploratory drilling within the block.


Dr. Mataragio directed the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) to ensure all projects are completed on schedule and according to the planned timelines.


For his part, Mtwara Regional Commissioner, Colonel Patrick Sawala, stated that natural gas has become a major attraction for investors in the region and has boosted both economic and social activities.


“For us in Mtwara, the energy sector is the backbone of our development and security. I commend TPDC and all stakeholders for the excellent implementation of gas projects, which have also created employment opportunities for our residents,” said Colonel Sawala.


Geologist Paschal Njiko, Director of Exploration, Development, and Production of Oil and Gas at TPDC, said the Corporation will continue to closely monitor contractors to ensure that all projects are completed on time and within budget.


Meanwhile, Mr. Selemani Hassani, Chairperson of Mwanamawa Village, expressed gratitude to the government and TPDC for introducing the project in their area, noting that residents have already started benefiting through job opportunities and improved infrastructure.


“Through this project, we have received small access roads within our community that have eased social and economic activities. Residents have also gained temporary employment, which has increased their income,” he said.


So far, more than 1,200 short-term jobs have been created for Mtwara residents through the seismic data collection project in the Lindi–Mtwara Block.


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