Tanzania embarks on helium exploration in Rukwa

RUKWA: A new helium gas exploration is expected to begin at Kinambo village in  Rukwa Region, starting from December 2025 to February 2026.

The exploration will be conducted by the Australian company Noble Helium, which also plans to employ over 50 young Tanzanians.

Speaking in an exclusive interview, the Company’s Representative, Pius  Mwita, said Noble Helium has successfully completed various preliminary studies and identified key indicators of the presence of Helium gas, while contributing to employment and development for communities surrounding the mining areas.

Mwita said in previous studies, the company provided about 450 informal jobs, and also involved Tanzanian citizens in the provision of services such as security, distribution of goods, lubricants for mining activities, small tenders, food procurement, as well as the improvement of road infrastructure.

Additionally, he said they have completed the assessment and payment of compensation to citizens in the Helium exploration license areas, as part of ensuring that the company’s activities are conducted in accordance with the interests of the community and the laws of the country.

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According to Mwita, the new exploration to be held in Kinambo will add another 50 opportunities for young people, thus stimulating economic development in the area.

“We urge young people to come forward in large numbers once these opportunities are announced. Our goal is to ensure that the community directly benefits from this investment,” he said.

The exploration is expected to accelerate preparations for a major investment in helium in the country, a gas that has been in high demand worldwide for the use of medical technologies, aerospace, and scientific equipment.