Big news is brewing in Tanzania’s energy sector, and it’s something people have been watching for quite a while. After much planning and anticipation, things are finally set to move forward in a big way. You’ll want to pay close attention: the much-discussed Mnazi Bay gas field drilling project begins this November, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s energy ambitions.
This isn’t just about turning on a new tap; it’s a major development that could boost production to meet the growing demand. For those following the project, this confirms that progress is real and happening now. If you’re new to the topic, here’s why this drilling campaign is a critical event for East Africa.
What’s Happening?
Maurel & Prom is launching an $80 million, three-well drilling campaign at the Mnazi Bay gas field in November 2025. Located in the southern Mtwara region of Tanzania, Mnazi Bay is already a key source of the country’s natural gas. This new phase aims to significantly expand supply.
The plan involves drilling three natural gas wells:
- MB-5 and MS-2– two infill production wells
- Kasa– one exploration well
The goal is to tap into known gas reserves to enhance overall production. This isn’t about venturing into the unknown—it’s a strategic move to extract more gas from an already proven field.
This entire operation is a joint effort, blending international expertise with national interests to power Tanzania’s growth.
The Key Players: Maurel & Prom and TPDC
To understand this development fully, you need to know who’s behind it.
Who is Maurel & Prom (M&P)?
Maurel & Prom is a France-based oil and gas company with operations in Tanzania, Gabon, and Colombia, and holds stakes in assets or producing companies in Angola, Nigeria, and Venezuela.
Maurel & Prom Group entered in Tanzania in July 2004 with the Bigwa-Rufiji-Mafia permit, which it operates with 60% interests. It further strengthened its positions in 2009 by acquiring the production permit for Mnazi Bay which it operates with 48.06 interests from Artmus. The Mnazi Bay field started producing gas in 2015.
In the Mnazi Bay project, M&P is the operator, holding a 60% stake. That means they are in charge of the technical execution—bringing the know-how, equipment, and team to carry out this three-well drilling campaign safely and effectively.
They operate under a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), a common structure in the oil and gas sector that defines how profits and resources are shared with the host country. Almost all of M&P’s production in Tanzania is sold to TPDC.
What is TPDC’s Role?
The Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) is the country’s national oil company. In February 2024, TPDC increased its stake in the Mnazi Bay project from 20% to 40%, giving it more influence over decision-making and a greater share in the development.
Why This Drilling Project Matters.
You might be wondering—why is this such a big deal? The answer lies in how this project fits into Tanzania’s broader goals for energy, economic growth, and national development.
Boosting Power Supply
Tanzania aims to increase its power generation capacity to 5,000 MW by the end of 2025, up from 3,160 MW today. According to the Natural Gas Utilisation Master Plan, by 2044, natural gas is expected to be the leading source of power generation—providing 6,700 MW, up from approximately 1,200 MW now.
Natural gas already plays a central role in powering homes and industries, and it supports rural electrification through programs like the Rural Energy Agency (REA).
Growing Industrial and Transport Demand
Demand for gas is rising sharply:
- A new fertilizer plant in Lindiwill require 70 million cubic feet of gas per year, with deliveries expected to start in 2028.
- CNG stationsare rolling out across the country to serve vehicles and public buses like DART.
- The number of vehicles using natural gas has jumped from 3,100 in 2023to 15,000 in 2025.
Given its proximity to existing infrastructure and market demand, the Mnazi Bay drilling project is poised to deliver timely supply.
Technical Details.
For those interested in the nuts and bolts, of the three wells:
- MB-5 and MS-2are production wells, meaning they are drilled into areas where gas reserves are already confirmed.
- Kasais an exploration well, designed to identify new reserves.
Currently, Mnazi Bay has five producing wells. The new campaign is expected to add 30 million cubic feet of gas per day, helping maintain and possibly increase the field’s output plateau.
Conclusion.
The Mnazi Bay drilling campaign represents more than just another field development—it’s a milestone for Maurel & Prom, TPDC, and Tanzania as a whole. The decision to begin drilling in November signals real momentum and confidence in Tanzania’s future.
Eyes across the energy world will be on southern Tanzania. The success of this campaign could set the stage for even more development and help secure Tanzania’s position as a regional natural gas leader.
