SIMIYU: The ongoing oil and gas exploration project in the Eyasi-Wembere Basin, which spans five regions in Tanzania, has reached 20% completion, according to recent updates from the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC). The exploration, conducted using 2D seismic data technology, aims to identify potential oil and gas reserves in this region.
The project’s team, working with advanced technology, is currently focused on acquiring 914 new data points. The data, captured through the Stryde Node receiver system, will provide critical information that could pave the way for drilling exploratory wells. The sound waves reflected from subsurface rock formations are being analyzed to determine the presence of oil or gas reservoirs.
Speaking on the progress, Mr. Sindi Maduhu, Project Manager for the Eyasi-Wembere Exploration Project and TPDC Geophysicist, shared that a preliminary study covering the entire basin was completed last year. “This study covered five regions—Singida, Arusha, Tabora, Shinyanga, and Simiyu—and aimed to assess the type and depth of the rocks in the area. The data we collected was promising, so we’ve narrowed our focus to collect more detailed information,” said Mr. Maduhu.
The Eyasi-Wembere Basin spans over 10,630 square kilometers in the East African Rift Valley, a region known for its geological similarity to areas in Uganda and Kenya where oil reserves have been successfully discovered. With a budget of 43 billion Tanzanian shillings allocated for the current fiscal year, the TPDC is fully funding the exploration project, which is expected to take more than 18 months to complete.
Last week, a fleet of high-tech seismic vehicles was spotted at Bukundi Village in Meatu District, Simiyu Region, as they generated controlled vibrations to measure the rock formations beneath the earth’s surface. The vehicles’ equipment is key to the data collection phase, which is crucial in determining the exact locations for drilling exploratory wells.
Mr. Faustine Kayombo, TPDC’s Senior Geophysicist, explained that the project has now reached a pivotal stage. “We’ve reduced the area of concentration to target potential sites for exploratory drilling, thanks to the insights provided by 2D seismic technology. This phase will give us a clearer picture of the basin’s potential,” he noted.
In addition to 2D technology, the project also leaves room for the option to transition to 3D seismic data collection if necessary. AGS, the contractor responsible for the operation, is coordinating this effort in partnership with TPDC.
The exploration project has drawn inspiration from successful oil discoveries in neighboring Rift Valley regions, including Uganda’s Lake Albert and Kenya’s Turkana region. The geological similarities between these regions and the Eyasi-Wembere Basin make it a prime candidate for exploration, according to TPDC Geologist, Dr. Shaibu Nuru.
Meanwhile, the Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA) is closely monitoring the project’s compliance with Tanzania’s local content policy. The policy mandates that contractors and subcontractors prioritize the use of locally sourced goods and services to ensure that Tanzanian citizens and businesses benefit from the oil and gas sector.
As the project moves forward, the data collected will determine the next steps for potential exploratory wells, which could unlock new energy resources for Tanzania.
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