DAR ES SALAAM: The Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) has embarked on the second phase of its strategic oil exploration project in the Eyasi Wembere Valley, which includes Singida and Arusha regions.
Sindi Maduhu, the Oil and Gas Survey Project Manager, announced on Thursday that early signs of potential oil and gas deposits prompted the renewed exploration efforts.
Mr Maduhu noted that initial work began with a geochemical survey in 2021, followed by the deployment of 2D seismic vibration systems in 2023. These systems allowed researchers to measure the depth of rock formations and detect underground sediment accumulations that could indicate oil reserves.
The ongoing survey builds on previous efforts dating back to 2015, when geophysical data was first collected to map the basin and analyze the area’s geological structure.
The first phase, which concluded in October 2023, involved the collection of 2D seismic data.
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This method sends sound waves into the ground and analyzes their echoes to better understand the area’s rock formations and assess potential oil indicators.
Covering an area of 10,630 square kilometres, the Eyasi Wembere Valley is being closely studied for its potential to harbour oil or natural gas reserves. The project, funded by the Tanzanian government through TPDC, has an estimated cost of 8bn/-
Experts are optimistic that this phase of the exploration will yield promising results and help identify specific areas with strong potential for oil deposits.
