TANZANIA is standing at the edge of an energy breakthrough that could transform its future.
The country’s fifth oil and gas licensing round, offering 26 exploration blocks, has stirred fresh excitement. It feels like a moment of hope, anticipation, and big possibilities.
After almost ten years since the last auction in 2014, this new round is a chance to expand Tanzania’s already significant natural gas resources. It also moves the country closer to $42.67 billion LNG project.
For many people, it is not just about gas. It is about jobs, electricity, industries, and a better life for ordinary citizens.
Behind the official announcements lies a story of ambition and determination. Experts, policy makers, and everyday Tanzanians all share the same hope, and this time, gas wealth will deliver real change.
Mark LaCour, an American analyst who follows African LNG projects closely, describes the licensing round as “a very important moment for the country’s energy future.”
He points out that there are 23 offshore blocks in the Indian Ocean and three more in Lake Tanganyika, all in areas with strong potential.
“New discoveries could strengthen the LNG project, make it more viable, and even expand its capacity,” LaCour says. “This would give Tanzania a strong place in the global LNG market.”
A local petroleum economist, Fikiri Ali, agrees. He explains that Tanzania already has 10.4 trillion cubic feet of gas discovered onshore and 47.1 trillion offshore. “By opening these new blocks, the country can build on what it already has and attract more investors,” he says. Adding: “The global demand outlook for LNG is positive, and Tanzania has an excellent chance to benefit.”
Many industry observers believe that renewed confidence is largely due to the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. Her collaborative style has reassured investors after years of delays.
“The change in approach has been very encouraging,” says a senior official at Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) preferred anonymity. “Investors want to see stability, transparency, and commitment. Tanzania is showing that now.”
The official believes that once the LNG project is completed, it will itself attract more investment.
“Completion shows the world that Tanzania is ready. It tells investors that if they discover gas here, infrastructure is already in place, and demand is waiting. That makes investment easier and safer.”
Balancing exports with domestic needs is also important. Natural gas already powers more than half of Tanzania’s electricity supply, keeping homes lit and factories running.
Experts say future agreements must ensure that while Tanzania sells gas abroad, it also reserves enough for local use.
That message resonates on the streets. For instance, in Kariakoo, shop owner Siwema Mahmood says, “We hear about billions in gas, but we still have power cuts. We just want our gas to light our homes and grow our businesses.”
For university student Joseph Mwakang’ata, the project carries even greater promise. “If it creates jobs and industries, it can change lives,” he says. “This is our chance to do better than we did with gold, where wealth left but little stayed.”
Lawyers stress that legal certainty is key, but they also see improvements.
“Investors need to trust that the rules will remain clear and predictable,” says Emmerson Katundu, a local legal expert. He adds: “Tanzania is moving in that direction, and that will build confidence.”
Timing will also be crucial. Neighbouring Mozambique has already moved ahead with LNG, while giants like Qatar and the United States are expanding production.
Still, analysts believe Tanzania can secure its share if it moves decisively.
“The demand is there, the resources are there, and the government is clearly committed,” LaCour says. Partnerships will also play a central role. Global energy companies bring financing, technology, and access to markets. Tanzania brings resources, leadership, and a growing local market. Together, this could be a powerful combination.
The stakes are high, but the rewards are even higher. If the licensing round succeeds, Tanzania could secure new discoveries, expand its resource base, underpin the LNG project, and attract billions of dollars in investment. That could mean more jobs, stronger infrastructure, and a bigger role for Tanzania in Africa’s energy future.
For ordinary Tanzanians, the measure of success will be simple. As Joseph, the student, puts it, “Gas should mean a better Tanzania. It should mean a change that we can feel.”
The coming months will see the country turning resources into results. With a clear vision, stronger investor confidence, and a project that could transform the nation, Tanzania’s LNG journey is no longer just a dream. It is a real chance to secure lasting prosperity for generations to come.
