DAR ES SALAAM: The Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA) held a meeting with Maurel et Prom Exploration Production Tanzania Ltd (M&P), the operator of the Mnazi Bay Block, on Monday to review the progress of their upcoming drilling project. The project, which involves the drilling of three natural gas wells, is scheduled to begin in early 2025.
The meeting, chaired by PURA’s Exploration and Production Manager Simon Nkenyeli, focused on key operational matters, including ensuring the participation of Tanzanian workers and service providers in the project. M&P was represented by its General Manager, Sylvain Pichelin, who provided an update on the project’s budget, set at $80.2 million, which is awaiting final approval from the regulator.
Of the three wells to be drilled, two (MB5 and MS2) will serve as production (infill) wells, while the third (Kasa) will be an exploration well. An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has already been completed, with compensation for affected communities still pending.
Local content compliance was a significant topic of discussion, with PURA stressing the importance of adhering to laws and regulations to ensure full involvement of Tanzanians in the project. The regulator emphasized its close monitoring of the project’s progress to guarantee local participation at all levels.
Mnazi Bay, located in Mtwara District, currently has five wells producing natural gas at an average rate of 74.24 million standard cubic feet per day (as of September 2024). The project partners include M&P, which holds a 60% stake, and the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC), which owns the remaining 40%.
The new wells are expected to help maintain production levels and provide additional geological insights into the reservoir.
ALSO READ PURA announces new oil and gas exploration opportunities
