Tanzania has discovered an estimated 223 billion cubic feet of natural gas in the Mnazi Bay area in the south of the country.
This development marks the country’s first gas discovery in more than a decade, potentially strengthening its domestic energy supply. According to Reuters, Energy Minister Juma Homera announced on Tuesday that the reserves were identified at the Kasa-1X ST2 well, jointly explored by state-owned Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) and French oil and gas company Maurel & Prom.
The discovery follows drilling operations at three wells: MB-5, MS-2 and Kasa-1X ST2, aimed at expanding Tanzania’s natural gas resources and boosting supply.Maurel & Prom has indicated that first gas production from the Mnazi Bay area could begin as early as next month, potentially accelerating the commercial benefits of the discovery.
The development comes as Tanzania seeks to expand investment in its energy sector and unlock greater value from its substantial natural gas resources.
Homera revealed that TPDC is already engaging four investors interested in developing small-scale liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects, signalling opportunities for further private-sector participation.
Before the latest discovery, Tanzania’s identified natural gas reserves stood at approximately 57.5 trillion standard cubic feet, according to the country’s energy regulator.
The 223 billion cubic feet find adds to the country’s resource base and could support domestic energy availability while creating opportunities for investment in gas production and related infrastructure.
With production potentially commencing within weeks, attention will now turn to the pace of development, the commercial contribution of the new reserves and Tanzania’s ability to translate its natural gas resources into broader economic gains
