DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania – In a move signaling renewed urgency in Tanzania’s energy sector, newly appointed Energy Minister Deogratius Ndejembi has directed the Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA) to accelerate oil and gas exploration efforts across the country.
During his inaugural meeting with PURA management on November 24, 2025, Minister Ndejembi emphasized the need for concrete strategies to speed up exploration activities, particularly in the Ruvu, Mkuranga, and Tanga blocks.
“I expect to see PURA preparing and implementing strategies that will stimulate the exploration of oil and natural gas in various blocks,” stated Ndejembi, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Chamwino Constituency. “We need detailed plans outlining what needs to be done to achieve the desired results, recognizing that such studies typically require substantial time.”
Strategic Focus on Investment Climate
The minister’s directive comes as Tanzania prepares for its fifth licensing round for oil and gas exploration blocks. Ndejembi specifically tasked PURA with providing timely advice on creating a more competitive investment environment while safeguarding national interests.
“Before we move to the fifth licensing round, I expect PURA to advise the Ministry on the steps we should take to make the environment more friendly for the investors we are targeting,” Ndejembi emphasized. “I expect this advice to come quickly so that we can make it successful.”
The successful execution of the fifth licensing round is expected to deliver significant economic benefits, potentially increasing government revenue and leaving a positive legacy in Tanzania’s energy sector.
Alignment with National Development Goals
PURA Director General, Engineer Charles Sangweni, welcomed the minister’s guidance and reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to effectively executing its duties. Sangweni pledged that PURA would continue working toward sectoral goals that contribute to Tanzania’s Vision 2050 development framework.
The renewed push for oil and gas exploration complements Tanzania’s broader energy initiatives, including recent investments in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) infrastructure and the country’s transition toward cleaner cooking energy solutions.
This development occurs against the backdrop of Tanzania’s strong economic performance, with the International Monetary Fund projecting GDP growth of 6.0% in 2025 and 6.3% in 2026, supported by prudent fiscal management and ongoing structural reforms.
