Maurel & Prom (M&P), the operator of Tanzania’s Mnazi Bay gas field, is set to commence drilling operations for three new natural gas wells in mid-December. The move marks a significant step toward boosting the country’s natural gas output as energy demand continues to rise.
According to the company’s latest operational update, preparations for the drilling campaign are in their final stages. The drilling rig is expected to arrive in Tanzania in early November, paving the way for work to begin before year-end.
The new wells are designed to sustainably increase the gross production potential of the Mnazi Bay field, which currently stands at around 100 million standard cubic feet per day (mmcfd). Once completed, the development could push output beyond the 130 mmcfd processing capacity of the existing facilities—enhancing Tanzania’s ability to meet both industrial and domestic gas demand.
M&P, which holds a 60% working interest in the Mnazi Bay permit, reported average gas production of 59.8 mmcfd during the first nine months of 2025—a 4% decline compared to the same period last year. The upcoming drilling program is therefore viewed as a critical investment to restore and expand production capacity.
Read:Don’t Believe The Headlines – Despite the Dam, Tanzania’s Gas Demand Is Still Surging
The Mnazi Bay field remains one of Tanzania’s cornerstone gas assets, supplying power generation plants and key industries through the national pipeline network. The renewed drilling activity underscores M&P’s long-term commitment to the country’s gas sector and reflects growing investor confidence in East Africa’s energy landscape.
Tanzania Petroleum will continue to follow this development closely and provide in-depth coverage of stories shaping the region’s oil and gas future.
