Tanzania's Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi has directed the Ministry of Energy to develop a strategic plan to build the capacity of young people and local companies to participate in oil and natural gas projects. The directive was issued on October 28, 2026, in Dar es Salaam during a ceremony to sign oil and gas exploration licences. This move aims to increase Tanzanian participation in the sector.
The Vice President made the announcement while highlighting the success story of Mwizegwa Rusibamanyila, a young Tanzanian entrepreneur who returned home to establish a company operating in the Mnazi Bay gas block in Mtwara Region. Rusibamanyila's company employs over 50 Tanzanians, with 80 percent coming from a village surrounding the project. This demonstrates the potential for local content to create employment opportunities.
Ndejembi invited Rusibamanyila to the event, showcasing his company's achievements in employing and developing local talent. One of the employees, a young woman, was recruited while still a student and has since risen to become a project supervisor. The Vice President emphasized that with proper management of the local content unit, many more entrepreneurs like Rusibamanyila can be developed.
The Vice President stressed the importance of preparing young people with the necessary skills to participate in major projects, including the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) project in Lindi Region. This will enable Tanzanians to participate as professionals, service providers, and suppliers of goods. The Ministry of Energy is expected to develop a strategic plan to achieve this goal.
Ndejembi also advised the Minister of Energy to establish a special award to recognize Rusibamanyila's significant contribution to the sector. This move aims to motivate and reward local entrepreneurs who are making a positive impact in the oil and gas industry. The award will encourage others to follow in Rusibamanyila's footsteps.
The event saw the signing of oil and gas exploration licences for several blocks, including Mnazi Bay, Songo Songo, Eyasi Wembere, and Lindi-Mtwara. The licences were issued to various companies, marking a significant step forward in Tanzania's oil and gas exploration efforts. The country is expected to benefit from increased investment and revenue in the sector.
The directive to increase youth participation in the oil and gas sector is a significant move by the Tanzanian government. It aims to ensure that local communities benefit from natural resource extraction and that young people have the skills and opportunities to participate in the economy. The Ministry of Energy will play a crucial role in implementing this strategic plan.
Key points
- Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi directs the Ministry of Energy to develop a strategic plan to build the capacity of young people and local companies to participate in oil and natural gas projects.
