Tanzania Discovers 223 Billion Cubic Feet of Natural Gas

Tanzania has discovered an estimated 223 billion cubic feet of natural gas at the Kasa-1X ST2 exploration well in the southern Mnazi Bay basin. Energy Minister Juma Homera announced the find on October 27, 2026, during an official tour of the Mtwara region. The discovery was a joint effort between the state-owned Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation and the French energy company Maurel & Prom, which holds a 60% operating interest in the license.

While the government estimates the reserves at 223 billion cubic feet, Maurel & Prom previously estimated the volume at approximately 200 billion cubic feet. Production is expected to begin as early as November 2026, with an anticipated daily output of 30 to 50 million cubic feet. The project is estimated to generate roughly US$950 million in gross revenue based on current domestic prices.

Coinciding with this discovery, the government awarded four new exploration blocks—Mnazi Bay North, West Songo Songo, Eyasi-Wembere, and Lindi-Mtwara—to the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation. Vice-President Deogratius Ndejembi stated the move aims to strengthen the state corporation's capacity to manage resources across the entire value chain. These developments occur as Tanzania works to finalize a $42 billion liquefied natural gas project led by Equinor and Shell.