Tanzania has announced a new natural gas discovery estimated at 223 billion cubic feet in the Mnazi Bay area in the south of the country, marking its first gas discovery in more than 10 years and offering fresh opportunities for the nation’s energy sector.
Energy Minister Juma Homera announced the discovery on Tuesday, saying the gas was found at the Kasa-1X ST2 well, explored jointly by the state-owned Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) and French energy company Maurel & Prom.
The discovery follows drilling activities involving three wells — MB-5, MS-2 and Kasa-1X ST2 — aimed at increasing Tanzania’s gas supply. Maurel & Prom has indicated that production from the new discovery could begin as early as November 2026, potentially adding to domestic energy availability.
The development comes as Tanzania seeks to strengthen energy security, attract foreign investment and expand the use of natural gas in electricity generation and industrial production. The government is also exploring opportunities to develop small-scale liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects, with Homera confirming that discussions are under way with four prospective investors.
Before the latest discovery, Tanzania’s known natural gas reserves stood at approximately 57.5 trillion cubic feet, according to the country’s energy regulator. The new find could further support the government’s ambitions to develop its energy resources and promote industrialisation.
Natural gas is an important component of Tanzania’s energy strategy, providing fuel for power generation and industrial activities. Increased domestic production could help meet rising energy demand while creating opportunities for investment, employment and infrastructure development.
The discovery also comes as Tanzania advances plans for a major LNG export project designed to unlock its substantial offshore gas resources and strengthen its position in international energy markets.
Although the new discovery is relatively modest compared with Tanzania’s existing gas resources, its proximity to established production infrastructure could help accelerate development. Attention will now turn to production timelines, investment decisions and how the additional gas will contribute to the country’s long-term energy and economic goals.
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