By:Dailynews

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA is set to leverage advanced technology to unlock the full potential of its petroleum resources through strategic investments and international collaborations to ensure tangible benefits for its citizens and the nation at large.

Recognising the rapid pace of global technological change, the country emphasises the importance of integrating modern innovations into its oil and gas sector.

This approach not only promotes dialogue on emerging technologies but also underscores Tanzania’s vast potential, with 23 petroleum exploration blocks currently open for investment.

Speaking at the Africa Technology Conference held on Tuesday in Dar es Salaam, the Director General of the Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA), Engineer Charles Sangweni, reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to advancing the sector through partnerships with global stakeholders.

He stressed that harnessing innovation is essential to enhancing exploration, improving efficiency, and maximising returns from the country’s natural resources.

“I assure you that Tanzania continues to grow in the energy sector, with numerous investment opportunities,” said Engineer Charles Sangweni, adding that the government remains fully committed and ready to collaborate with the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) and other stakeholders.

Engineer Sangweni delivered the remarks on behalf of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr Doto Biteko, during a three-day Africa Technology Conference commenced in Dar es Salaam yesterday.

The event was organised by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) in collaboration with the government of Tanzania.

The conference themed “Navigating the future, Building Technological Excellence for Sustainable Energy in Africa” involved stakeholders and various international institutions from different countries in the oil and gas sector.

Eng Sangweni detailed that currently, Tanzania has discovered approximately 57.54 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, with 47 trillion offshore and over 10 trillion onshore.

He said the gas currently being produced comes from Mnazi Bay (Mtwara) and Songosongo, is being used for electricity generation, fuelling vehicles and in industrial and institutional use, as the government aims at expanding the uses aiming to reduce foreign currency expenditure.

Speaking about the local content and young professionals, he said it is essential to prepare them to keep pace with global technological changes.

“Through this conference, Tanzania has the opportunity to learn from technologically advanced countries and exchange experiences regarding the direction of the energy sector,” said Eng Sangweni.

He added “We must therefore ensure that Tanzanians and local companies participate fully and meet the required standards.”

He underscored that through the conference, various opportunities available in Tanzania to investors will be showcased, including the presentation of vital information that will help connect local professionals with companies looking to invest in the country.

“Students in universities will also gain motivation and a vision for their future in this sector, especially when they see those who came before them achieving success,” said Eng Sangweni.

Eng Sangweni explained that through various presentations, the government will be able to identify existing gaps and address them to accelerate the sector’s development more efficiently.

The SPE Africa Regional Director, Dr Riverson Oppong said the society aims to support Tanzania’s government and experts in the sector particularly in marketing the available 23 blocks for exploration and investments.

Dr Oppong, who also serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC), expressed the importance of placing the younger generation at the forefront of skills and career development to ensure they are not left behind.

The SPE Tanzania Chairman, Eng Alex Stephano, said that the event has enabled the exchange of experiences while providing numerous opportunities for the entire energy sector.

He expressed gratitude to the government and stakeholders for facilitating the conference.

“We are making progress in the oil and gas sector. There are already production areas, and research activities are ongoing, which is attracting more investors, “he said.