Huge gas deposits found in Tanzania

The East African deposits found so far are large enough to justify construction of at least eight LNG production trains, according to estimates by the firms.

Experts say, the gas industry development will be a boost to the predominantly agriculture economy by stimulating other sectors such as supply services and thus rendering a variety of employment to the youth.
However, they urge the government to be keen to avoid future remorse over blunder contracts like those previously seen in the mining sector.

Legal frameworks needed
“It is high time we open up new areas for revenue sources. However, we would like to see the government taking charge as a large player just like South Africa and Norway, whose economies are thriving smoothly on their natural resources,” Dr Razack Lokina, a lecturer at University of Dar es Salaam said.

The Energy and Minerals Parliamentary Committee chairman, Mr January Makamba, said it was important for government to set up legal framework first.

“We need to develop technical schools and faculties in universities specifically to develop enough skilled personnel for the industry such as gas economists, petroleum engineers, auditors and so forth,” Mr Makamba said.