Karatu, Tanzania — Tanzania has taken a significant step toward strengthening its long-term energy prospects with the launch of Phase Two of the Eyasi–Wembere oil and gas exploration project in Karatu District, Arusha Region.
The project, spearheaded by the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC), involves the acquisition of 2D seismic data covering approximately 914 kilometres around Lake Eyasi, a key area within the Eyasi–Wembere Basin.
Unlike the first phase, which utilised vibration-based seismic technology, the second phase is deploying controlled underwater detonations to generate seismic waves. The data collected will be analysed to identify subsurface structures with potential oil and gas deposits and to guide future drilling decisions.
TPDC Project Manager and geophysicist Sindi Maduhu said the operation is being carried out under strict regulatory oversight to ensure adherence to national energy policies, environmental safeguards, and community engagement standards.
The Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA) is supervising the exploration activities, while the contracted firm, Africa Geophysical Services (AGS), has employed a substantial number of local residents. This approach, officials say, is aimed at promoting community participation, skills transfer, and local economic benefits.
Preliminary results from earlier studies have been promising. Geological assessments have confirmed the presence of oil-bearing rock formations, suggesting the basin holds significant commercial potential.
The Eyasi–Wembere Basin, situated along the Eastern Branch of the Great East African Rift System, shares geological characteristics with established petroleum-producing regions such as Uganda’s Albertine Graben and Kenya’s Lokichar Basin.
Government officials note that the project reflects Tanzania’s broader strategy to enhance energy security, promote responsible resource development, and support economic diversification through the sustainable exploitation of its natural resources.
