Dar es Salaam. During the East African Community Petroleum Conference and Exhibition (EAPCE’25) held in Dar es Salaam for three days, participants reached crucial agreements that could significantly reshape Tanzania’s oil and gas sector.
The Petroleum Commissioner at the Energy Ministry, Mr Goodluck Shirima, emphasized on Friday, March 7, 2025, at the conclusion of the conference that the consensus to establish transparent and predictable contracts for investors is a critical step toward building long-term relationships with foreign investors.
He noted that such contracts will not only mitigate risks but also foster an environment of trust and stability, essential for attracting foreign capital into the sector.
The conference highlighted the decision to standardize oil prices across all ports, aimed at reducing costs for consumers and promoting equitable market practices.
Mr Shirima explained that this move is expected to encourage competition among local and international suppliers while ensuring fair pricing for Tanzanians.
Additionally, the participants discussed the importance of enhancing infrastructure to support the oil and gas sector.
Plans for a new oil pipeline connecting Tanzania and Zambia were outlined, along with ongoing negotiations for a clean oil pipeline to Uganda. These infrastructure developments are vital for optimizing resource distribution and could facilitate greater energy trade within the region.
Mr Shirima’s remarks reflected a broader strategic vision for Tanzania’s role in the East African energy landscape.
The agreements reached at EAPCE’25 signify a commitment to creating a conducive environment for investment, which is crucial for unlocking the sector’s potential and driving economic growth.
As the conference concluded, there was a strong sense of optimism among attendees about the future of Tanzania’s oil and gas industry.
The government’s readiness to implement these initiatives effectively is expected to bolster investor confidence, paving the way for sustainable development in the sector.
