Engineer Sangweni: Linking natural gas, agriculture key to boosting economy

This was stated today (August 7, 2025) by the Director General of the Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA), Engineer Charles Sangweni, at the authority’s pavilion during the ongoing National Agricultural Exhibition (Nanenane) at Nzuguni grounds in Dodoma.

Engineer Sangweni explained that the natural gas produced in the country can be used as a raw material to produce ammonia, a chemical used to manufacture various types of fertilizers, including urea.

He also noted that the use of natural gas in vehicles has helped reduce operating costs, and that if it is used in vehicles transporting agricultural, livestock, and fisheries products, it would help reduce transportation costs.

On the other hand, Sangweni pointed out that the agriculture sector continues to play a vital role in the implementation of oil and gas projects by supplying food to experts working in these projects.

Despite agriculture offering this important service, Sangweni noted there are still several challenges, including the demand from companies—especially international energy companies—for high-quality agricultural products that only a few Tanzanian suppliers currently meet.

However, Sangweni emphasized that PURA, in collaboration with various stakeholders, continues to make deliberate efforts to ensure the required standards and quality are met for the broader benefit of the country’s economy.