Tanzania is preparing to launch its fifth oil and gas exploration licensing round in May 2025, aligning it with the Africa Energies Summit in London to maximize investor engagement. This round will include 26 blocks, with 23 located in the Indian Ocean and three in Lake Tanganyika.
The country holds over 57 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, which currently contribute to more than half of its electricity generation. Charles Sangweni, Director General of the Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA), emphasized that promoting the licensing round during a high-profile event is expected to attract key players in the oil and gas sector.
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Boosting energy
“We are proceeding with promotion activities because the blocks have already been identified and the data is in place. We are waiting for government approval of the Model Production Sharing Agreement, which outlines the fiscal terms. Our plan is to launch during the Africa Energy Summit in London from 13th to 15th May,” said Charles Sangweni.
In parallel, Tanzania continues to negotiate terms for a US $42bn liquefied natural gas (LNG) project with major global companies, including Shell, Equinor, Exxon Mobil, Pavilion Energy, Medco Energi, and the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC). While some issues remain unresolved, officials are optimistic about reaching a final agreement soon. The successful conclusion of these negotiations and the licensing round could strengthen Tanzania’s position as a major player in the global energy market, driving increased investment and boosting domestic energy production.