Tanzania's Unexplored Oil and Gas Prospects Remain Substantial

Tanzania has explored only 30% of its identified oil and gas prospective areas, leaving over 370,000 square kilometres to be assessed for possible petroleum discoveries.

The Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA) said that about 534,000 square kilometres have been identified as having potential for oil and gas, but preliminary exploration has covered only around 162,000 square kilometres.

According to PURA Director General Charles Sangweni, sedimentary rocks are the primary areas where oil and gas can be found. He explained that these rocks are relatively soft and contain pores, similar to a sponge, which can hold oil or gas.

Tanzania has made significant natural gas discoveries, with total reserves estimated at 57.54 trillion cubic feet. Natural gas production is currently taking place at Mnazi Bay and Songo Songo, while production from the Ntorya gas field in Mtwara is expected to add to the country's output.