Tanzania has announced its first natural gas discovery in more than a decade, with an estimated 223 billion cubic feet found at the Kasa-1X ST2 well in the Mnazi Bay area of the southern Mtwara Region. The discovery, announced by Energy Minister Juma Zuberi Homera on October 27, 2026, is expected to strengthen domestic energy supplies as electricity consumption and industrial demand continue to grow. The well was explored through a partnership between the state-owned Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) and French energy company Maurel & Prom. Production could begin as early as November 2026, according to reports.
Tanzania’s government estimates the discovery at 223 billion cubic feet, while Maurel & Prom has reported a lower gross estimate of about 200 billion cubic feet. The company has also indicated that the well could produce tens of millions of cubic feet of gas daily. Natural gas plays a major role in Tanzania’s energy sector, accounting for nearly 80 per cent of the country’s electricity generation in 2024. Gas from the Mnazi Bay area supplies power plants and supports industrial activity, while compressed natural gas is increasingly being used as an alternative fuel for vehicles.
Homera described the discovery as a major milestone, saying it could improve energy security and help meet growing demand. Additional production may also create opportunities for local businesses, employment and government revenue. The discovery follows Tanzania’s last reported gas find in 2015. However, the actual economic benefits will depend on production levels, recoverable reserves and how effectively the gas is delivered to consumers. The government is also discussing small-scale liquefied natural gas projects with investors as part of efforts to expand domestic gas use and support industrial development.
