Tanzania's Natural Gas Export Expansion to Neighboring Countries

Tanzania’s natural gas export expansion is making great strides as it seeks to expand its horizons and supply neighboring countries. These include Kenya, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Furthermore, Zambia is also to be considered as Tanzania seeks to leverage its options to become a regional energy powerhouse. The Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) acting managing director, Mr. Ahmad Massa, noted these plans in a press brief earlier this week. This was during a capacity-building workshop that aimed at discussing and increasing the company’s understanding of the state of the gas and oil sectors. Moreover, he noted that Tanzania had signed preliminary agreements with the mentioned countries to commence supply. The supply of natural gas will be done through pipelines, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), and its Mini LNG systems. Its implementation is expected to take shape as Tanzania shows steady readiness.

Project Factsheet

Location: Dar es Salaam

Country: Tanzania

Significance: Become East and Southern Africa’s leading regional cooking energy provider

Project duration: 2 Years

Supply Regions: Kenya, Uganda, the DRC, Zambia.

The State of Affairs Regarding Tanzania’s Natural Gas Export Expansion

Tanzania’s natural gas export expansion to neighboring countries is one that TPDC is ready to implement. “The government has entered into initial agreements with Uganda, Kenya, the DRC, and Zambia for the sale of natural gas. This move positions Tanzania as a major supplier of cooking energy in the region,” said Mr. Massa. Furthermore, the TPDC is currently developing infrastructure to facilitate the expansion. One of the projects entails the construction of mini LNG plants in collaboration with companies such as ROSETTA, Africa 50, and KS Energy. Mr. Massa noted that these plants will facilitate the efficient transportation of natural gas to neighboring markets upon completion. Furthermore, he emphasized that these efforts will solidify Tanzania’s role as a key player in energy provision across East and Southern Africa. This comes at a time when energy demands are surging across the region.

The Significance of Tanzania’s Endeavors in the Expansion Project

Tanzania’s natural gas export expansion is expected to benefit Tanzania and its neighbors significantly. Mr. Massa noted that TPDC’s goal is to leverage natural gas resources to support Tanzania’s energy and help neighboring countries. Natural gas will help other countries to reduce their dependence on external energy suppliers. “TPDC is also poised to play a pivotal role in Tanzania’s agricultural sector through the production of urea fertilizer,” he said. TPDC is partnering with the Tanzania Investment Center (TIC) and the Tanzania Fertiliser Regulatory Authority (TFRA) in this endeavor.

TFRA has signed a memorandum of understanding with Indonesia-based ESSA Group to construct a $1.4 billion fertilizer plant in the Lindi region. “This facility will be a breakthrough for Tanzania’s agricultural industry and position the country as a key supplier of fertiliser in Southern Africa,” said Massa. TPDC is also exploring viable oil and gas fields across the country. Ongoing exploration includes those in regions such as Mnazi Bay, Ruvuma, Songo Songo, and the Eyasi. Once in full swing, Tanzania’s natural gas export expansion will greatly facilitate the availability and accessibility of cooking energy domestically.