Seismic survey scheme benefits Lindi, Mtwara residents

MTWARA: MORE than 1,000 residents from villages surrounding the Lindi-Mtwara seismic survey block have gained temporary employment through a major gas exploration project being overseen by the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC).

Among the benefiting villages is Manamawa, located in Dihimba Ward under the Mtwara District Council.

During a one-day official visit to Mtwara Region to inspect the ongoing project, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy, Dr James Mataragio insisted that beyond supporting energy generation and reducing reliance on fuel imports, the government is keen to ensure local communities benefit directly from such projects.

“The goal is not only to generate electricity but also to create opportunities for surrounding communities. We are witnessing daily increases in the demand for power and gas, so it’s essential that these projects progress and are completed on time,” he said.

He added that in addition to employment, the project has stimulated the local economy by creating demand for food supplies and other basic services.

Contractors have also been supporting the community through initiatives in education and health, including the construction of toilets, while TPDC has contributed to the building of a local market.

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The seismic survey project is expected to run for 18 months. Dr Mataragio also visited Madimba, where work is underway to drill three new gas wells. Two of these wells are specifically aimed at boosting gas production and are expected to yield up to 45 million cubic feet of gas per day.

He urged contractors and TPDC to begin preparations for full-scale drilling as soon as data collection is complete, so that gas production in the Lindi-Mtwara block can begin without delay.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Energy is continuing to implement major natural gas projects aimed at increasing electricity generation and supporting investment in regions across Tanzania, including Mtwara.

Dr Mataragio inspected several ongoing projects, including the 18-month seismic data acquisition project in the Lindi-Mtwara block and visited natural gas facilities in Madimba and Msimbati, both within the Mtwara District Council. He also assessed preparations for the drilling of two new gas wells in Msimbati, each with a production capacity of 45 million cubic feet per day.

The wells are being managed and drilled by Morel & Prom and other partners, with operations expected to begin soon.

“We also have a major upcoming project to build a gas pipeline extending to Madimba,” he revealed.

Mtwara Regional Commissioner Colonel Patrick Sawala said that most of the region’s electricity is generated from natural gas, which plays a central role in its development. “The rise in investors such as the establishment of the Dangote cement factory is directly linked to the availability of natural gas,” he said.

He added that gas also plays a role in supporting regional security and stability and affirmed the government’s continued cooperation with the energy sector to ensure all activities under the ministry are implemented smoothly and efficiently.

According to Acting Director of Exploration, Production and Development at TPDC, Mr Paschal Njiko, preliminary data suggests that the block has significant potential for gas resources. He added that any gas discovered will help ensure the country maintains a reliable energy supply.

Meanwhile, Manamawa Village Chairperson, Selemani Hassan, expressed appreciation for the project.

“I thank the government and TPDC for bringing this project to our village. We are already seeing benefits especially through the short-term jobs that have been made available to residents who are able and willing to work,” he said.