Tanzania has been exploring for oil and gas for more than sixty (60) years, supported by extensive geological and geophysical studies aimed at unlocking the country’s hydrocarbon potential. To date, ninety-eight (98) exploration, appraisal and development wells have been drilled across both onshore and deep offshore. In addition, extensive 2D and 3D seismic data have been acquired, covering approximately 289,000 km and 3,000 km² respectively.

Upstream petroleum activities are undertaken through the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) and Production Sharing Agreements (PSAs). Currently, eleven (11) active PSAs are operated by nine (9) International Energy Companies (IECs). 

Tanzania’s natural gas resources are estimated at 57 trillion cubic feet (TCF), placing the country among Africa’s major natural gas holders. The first onshore natural gas discovery was made at Songo Songo Island in 1974, followed by Mnazi Bay in 1982, Mkuranga in 2008, Ruvu in 2012, and Ruvuma in 2017. Collectively, the onshore discoveries account for approximately 10.41 TCF of Gas Initially in Place (GIIP), while offshore discoveries made between 2010 and 2014 contributed about 47.13 TCF GIIP.

The Songo Songo and Mnazi Bay gas fields have since been developed and continue to supply natural gas for power generation, industrial use, households and compressed natural gas (CNG) for vehicles since 2004 and 2006 respectively.

Following the enactment of the Oil and Gas (Upstream) Act No. 6 of 2016, Zanzibar established two institutions to oversee upstream petroleum activities: the Zanzibar Petroleum Regulatory Authority (ZPRA) as the sector regulator, and the Zanzibar Petroleum Development Company (ZPDC) as the commercial entity.

The Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar entered into a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) with RAK GAS between 2018 and 2023 for the exploration and development of oil and gas resources in the Pemba–Zanzibar Block. Preliminary interpretation of 2D seismic data indicated the presence of approximately 3.8 TCF of natural gas resources.

Following completion of the 2D seismic acquisition programme, the Government of Zanzibar entered into an agreement with Africa Geophysical Services Limited (AGS) to acquire new 3D seismic data in the Kinyasini and West Paje areas of Unguja Island. The programme is intended to further mature identified leads into drillable prospects and improve subsurface geological understanding. Approximately 400 km² of seismic data acquisition is planned to enhance imaging resolution and support future exploration activities.

OPEN ACREAGE 

There are seven (7) open offshore Blocks which are expected to be licensed in the upcoming Licensing Round (5^th Licensing Round) in Tanzania Mainland as shown below:

On the other hand, the Government of Zanzibar has ten (10) open Blocks for investment and has issued conditions for direct negotiation. The direct negotiations process aims to speed up and simplify the process of granting Exploration Licenses. The ten (10) Blocks are located in onshore and offshore areas of Zanzibar. 

ONGOING UPSTREAM PROJECTS

Exploration Projects

Through TPDC, Tanzania has identified five (5) strategic exploration blocks, namely Eyasi-Wembere, Mnazi Bay North, West Songo Songo, and Lindi-Mtwara for future upstream development. The Government intends to grant exploration licences for these blocks, enabling TPDC to undertake petroleum exploration independently or through joint-venture partnerships.

To support this initiative, TPDC is conducting geological and subsurface studies to further evaluate the hydrocarbon potential of the areas. Drillable prospects have already been identified in Mnazi Bay North, while 2D and 3D seismic acquisition programmes are ongoing in Eyasi-Wembere and Lindi-Mtwara. Preparations are also underway for 3D seismic acquisition in the West Songo Songo Block.

TPDC is currently inviting strategic partners with strong technical and financial capabilities to collaborate in the exploration and development of these hydrocarbon resources. In addition, preparations are ongoing under the existing PSA for the drilling of an exploration well in the Tanga Block located in the northeastern part of Tanzania.

Ntorya Development Project

Development activities are ongoing at the Ntorya Gas Field located in the Ruvuma Basin. The project includes drilling operations and construction of gas gathering and transportation infrastructure to connect production to the Madimba Gas Processing Plant. The Ntorya Project is expected to significantly increase domestic gas supply and support the growing industrial and power generation demand in Tanzania.

MIDSTREAM AND DOWNSTREAM

Tanzania currently produces approximately 190 MMscfd of natural gas from the Songo Songo and Mnazi Bay gas fields. Natural gas is primarily utilized for power generation and contributes significantly to the country’s electricity supply. Beyond electricity generation, natural gas is utilized by industries, institutions, and households for heating and energy applications. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is also increasingly being adopted for transportation, particularly in Dar es Salaam, Coast Region, Lindi, and Mtwara. The Government is further expanding gas distribution infrastructure to additional regions such as Morogoro, Dodoma, and Mwanza, while also considering regional pipeline interconnections to neighbouring countries including Uganda and Kenya.

Natural Gas Infrastructures 

Tanzania has developed extensive gas infrastructure to support domestic gas utilization and industrial growth. The National Natural Gas Pipeline, stretching approximately 551 km from Mtwara and Songo Songo to Dar es Salaam, has a transportation capacity of about 784 MMscfd.

The country also operates two major gas processing plants at Songo Songo and Madimba with a combined processing capacity of approximately 350 MMscfd, supported by gas receiving facilities at Somanga Fungu and Kinyerezi. In addition, Tanzania operates other strategic gas transportation pipelines, including: The Songas pipeline from Songo Songo to Dar es Salaam, approximately 232 km long with a capacity of 105 MMscfd; and The Mnazi Bay–Mtwara pipeline operated by Maurel & Prom (M&P) and TPDC, approximately 27 km long with a capacity of 70 MMscfd.

Strategic Midstream projects

i)    Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)

The Tanzania Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Project is among Africa’s largest planned energy projects and is expected to position Tanzania as a major global LNG exporter. The project is proposed to be developed in the Lindi Region and is estimated to cost approximately USD 42 billion. The project is being jointly pursued by the Government of Tanzania through TPDC together with IECs, including Shell and Equinor with their partners. Negotiations on the Host Government Agreement (HGA) and related commercial arrangements are ongoing, with the Government targeting a Final Investment Decision (FID) in the near term.

Once implemented, the LNG project is expected to unlock commercialization of Tanzania’s offshore resources in Blocks 1, 2, and 4, attract large-scale foreign investment, create employment opportunities, and significantly increase government revenues.

ii)    East Africa Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP)

Tanzania, through TPDC, is participating in the implementation of the construction of East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), a strategic regional infrastructure project jointly developed by Tanzania and Uganda. The 1,443-kilometre heated crude oil pipeline will transport crude oil from Hoima in Uganda to the Port of Tanga in Tanzania. Within Tanzania, approximately 1,147 km of the pipeline traverses eight regions and twenty-four districts. TPDC holds a 15% equity stake in the project alongside other shareholders including TotalEnergies, CNOOC, and UNOC. The pipeline is designed to transport approximately 216,000 barrels of crude oil per day and is expected to strengthen regional energy trade, infrastructure integration, and economic cooperation. The project has also generated significant opportunities for employment, local content participation, and infrastructure development across Tanzania and the wider East African region. The project is currently at 80% to completion. 

Clean Cooking Initiatives

Tanzania is actively promoting clean cooking solutions as part of its national strategy to improve energy access, protect public health, reduce deforestation, and support environmental sustainability. The Government has prioritized clean cooking under the National Clean Cooking Strategy 2024–2034, which aims to accelerate the adoption of clean cooking energy and technologies across households, institutions, and commercial sectors.

Natural gas is expected to play a major role in supporting the clean cooking agenda through expansion of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), piped natural gas distribution, and other clean energy technologies. Investments are also being made in gas storage, distribution infrastructure, and clean cooking appliances to improve affordability and accessibility. In addition, Tanzania is encouraging private sector participation across the clean cooking value chain.

Rwanda is a land-locked country of 26,338 km² in area, with a population of about 14.8 million. The macroeconomic framework targets an annual average real GDP growth rate of 9.3% from 2024 to 2029, with per capita income expected to rise to USD 1,369 by 2029 from USD 1,040 in 2023. Ensuring access to affordable and modern sources of energy is essential to achieve these targets.

UNLOCKING THE HYDROCARBON POTENTIAL OF LAKE KIVU BASIN  

To unlock the hydrocarbon potential of the Lake Kivu Basin, Rwanda accomplished many technical studies that proved the hydrocarbon potential of the basin. The technical surveys include Geochemical studies (core analysis), 3438 km of marine Gravity/Magnetic, 514km of MC/SC seismic, and 466 km of 2D Seismic.

Lake Kivu is situated at the highest point of the western arm of the East African Rift System (EARS), and it is part of the Albertine tectonic graben. The water depth of the lake varies from 50 m to over 450 m. The commercial reserves discovered in the Albertine Rift Basin highlight the hydrocarbon potential of the Lake Kivu Basin. 

The existing data confirmed the presence of thermo-genic hydrocarbon gas (C2+), structural traps, and thick lacustrine sediments. The tectonic setting, the depositional environment, and the petroleum system of Lake Kivu Rift Basin is analogous to the prolific Albertine, Lokichar and Muglad rift basins, and accordingly the basin has attractive petroleum potential.

Rwanda has developed a Production Sharing Agreement model (PSA) with attractive fiscal and legal terms. Rwanda is ready to  negotiate and finalize a PSA with terms and conditions which are mutually beneficial. Interested companies will be provided with a data package to enable them to make their technical evaluation of the basin.

“Rwanda Mines, Petroleum and Gas Board (RMB) is extending special invitation to investors interested in upstream petroleum. The Lake Kivu Basin represents not only an exciting exploration frontier, but also a gateway to sustainable partnerships and shared prosperity” Alice Uwase, CEO, RMB.

Lake Kivu Methane Gas Exploitation

Lake Kivu is located on the border between the Republic of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo and covers an area of 2400 km². The lake is estimated to hold 60 km³ (2.1 TCF) of methane gas shared between the two countries.

Methane gas dissolved in Lake Kivu is one of the major sources of energy in the country contributing about 76 MW of electricity generation and the ongoing CNG project that will produce about 40MSCF/D in 2028 New investments are underway for additional power generation plants. Also, Rwanda is encouraging the economic exploitation of produced CO² gas from Lake Kivu.
  

DOWNSTREAM PETROLEUM SECTOR

Importation of Petroleum Products

Rwanda imports all its petroleum products. The key market players are private companies which import products for local distribution and re-export. The consumption of petroleum products in Rwanda stands at an average of 720 million liters per annum.

Storage Infrastructure Development

Rwanda is continuously developing storage facilities with capacities to meet the required petroleum consumption. The current total storage capacity is 118 million liters, while the target is to have 230 million liters by 2029 and 299 million liters by 2035 to improve the national self-reliance in fuel and supply security and to cater for the growing local demand and re-exports

  
Furthermore, there are LPG cylinder filling plants with a total storage capacity of 849.7 MT, while a bulk storage facility with the capacity of 8,680 MT is under construction and expected to be completed by July 2026.

Clean Energy

The Government of Rwanda has put in place policies and strategies to reduce the use of polluting biofuels such as wood or charcoal used in cooking and replace them with cleaner and more affordable energy sources such as electricity and LPG. New policies also encourage electric vehicles to reduce the use of petroleum products in transport. 

Uganda's petroleum sector has evolved into a strategic driver of economic transformation, industrialization, and regional integration within East Africa. Following decades of geological, geophysical, and exploration activities in the Albertine Graben, Uganda achieved its first commercial oil discoveries in 2006 at the Mputa and Waraga wells in the Lake Albert Basin.

Subsequent exploration and appraisal activities have confirmed approximately 6.5 billion barrels of oil in place, of which an estimated 1.4 billion barrels are recoverable. The country is now transitioning from exploration to production and is poised to join the ranks of oil-producing nations.

PETROLEUM GOVERNANCE AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

Uganda has established one of Africa's most comprehensive petroleum governance frameworks, designed to ensure sustainable and responsible development of its petroleum resources. The framework is anchored on:

• The National Petroleum Policy, 2025;
• The Constitution of the Republic of Uganda;
• The Petroleum (Exploration, Development and Production) Act, 2013;
• The Petroleum (Refining, Conversion, Transmission and Midstream Storage) Act, 2013;
• Petroleum regulations and environmental legislation;
• Land management laws; and
• Petroleum revenue management legislation.

These instruments collectively govern petroleum activities across the entire value chain—from exploration and production to transportation, refining, revenue management, and decommissioning—while promoting environmental stewardship, national participation, and socio-economic development.

Key Achievements 

Uganda has successfully:

• Established key sector institutions, including the Petroleum Authority of Uganda and Uganda National Oil Company;
• Enacted comprehensive petroleum legislation and regulations;
• Developed national content policies and implementation frameworks;
• Reached Final Investment Decisions (FID) for the Tilenga, Kingfisher, and East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) projects;
• Mobilized significant investment into strategic infrastructure supporting petroleum development.

UPSTREAM PETROLEUM SECTOR 

Uganda is currently transitioning from the exploration phase to petroleum production and export infrastructure development. This is premised on three major development projects namely;

• The Tilenga Project, located in Buliisa and Nwoya Districts and operated by TotalEnergies. It is one of the largest upstream petroleum developments in East Africa.
• The Kingfisher Development Project in Kikuube District operated by CNOOC Uganda Limited forms a critical component of Uganda's initial production portfolio.
• The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) provides the export route for Uganda's crude oil to international markets through Tanzania. 

With construction activities progressing steadily, Uganda is on course to commence commercial oil production in 2026, marking a historic milestone in the country's energy sector development.

Continued Exploration Efforts 

Beyond the Albertine Graben, exploration efforts continue in frontier basins to ensure the sustainability of Uganda's petroleum resource base.

• The Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) is currently undertaking exploration activities within the Kasurubanu Contract Area.
• Government-led Geological, Geophysical and Geochemical investigations are ongoing in the Kyoga and Moroto-Kadam Basins.
• Furthermore, Uganda is expected to launch its Third Licensing Round before the end of 2026, providing additional opportunities for investment and expanding exploration activities across the country's prospective sedimentary basins.

   Status of Licensing in the Albertine Graben of Uganda

MIDSTREAM PETROLEUM SECTOR

East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP)

The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), which will transport crude oil from Uganda's Albertine Graben to the port of Tanga in Tanzania, has made significant progress and is now in its final stages of construction. 

The 1,443-km heated pipeline had reached 85.7% overall completion by the first quarter of 2026, with all line pipes delivered, extensive welding and burial works completed, and major progress achieved on pump stations and export terminal facilities. The project remains on schedule to support Uganda's first oil production and export targets in by end of 2026. 

Key milestones achieved include:

• Completion of land acquisition along the Ugandan route.
• Over 1,400 km of pipeline welded and significant sections buried.
• Progress on Pump Station 1 in Hoima and Pump Station 2 in Sembabule.
• Marine Storage and Terminal facilities in Tanga nearing completion, with the export jetty over 90.7% complete. 

The project is expected to facilitate the export of crude from the Tilenga and Kingfisher developments and support Uganda's transition into an oil-producing nation during the second half of 2026. 
 
EACOP Right of Way from Uganda to Tanzania
 
EACOP Project Line Pipes being laid

Uganda Refinery Development

Uganda continues to pursue the development of the 60,000 barrels per day Uganda Refinery Project at Kabaale, Hoima District, as part of its strategy to maximize value addition from its petroleum resources. The refinery is intended to supply petroleum products to Uganda and the wider East African region, reducing dependence on imported fuels.

Current efforts are focused on:

• Finalization of project structuring and financing arrangements.
• Engagement with the refinery project company and potential investors.
• Development of supporting infrastructure within the Kabaale Industrial Park, including roads, power, water supply, and the Kabalega International Airport.
• Integration of the refinery with the planned petrochemical and industrial hub in Hoima. 

The refinery remains a strategic national project under the National Oil and Gas Policy and is expected to play a critical role in enhancing energy security, creating employment, promoting industrialization, and generating additional value from Uganda's petroleum resources once implemented.

EMERGING REGIONAL ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

Uganda and Tanzania are jointly advancing feasibility studies for two strategic regional energy infrastructure projects, namely:

1. a Natural Gas Transmission Pipeline from Tanzania to Uganda and 
2. a Bi-Directional Refined Petroleum Products Pipeline connecting the two countries. 

These projects are designed to strengthen regional energy security, support industrialization, enhance cross-border trade, and accelerate economic growth across the East African Community. Building on the successful collaboration demonstrated through major regional infrastructure initiatives, the two countries are creating a strong foundation for investment in energy transportation systems that will serve growing industrial, commercial, and domestic energy markets for decades to come.

The proposed natural gas pipeline will provide Uganda with access to Tanzania's significant natural gas resources, creating opportunities for power generation, mineral processing, manufacturing, petrochemicals, fertilizer production, and other energy-intensive industries. At the same time, the bi-directional refined petroleum products pipeline will improve the efficiency, reliability, and flexibility of fuel supply chains within the region by reducing transportation costs, minimizing supply disruptions, and strengthening regional energy resilience. Together, these projects will unlock new economic opportunities, support regional integration, create employment, and stimulate local content development while contributing to sustainable economic transformation.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES 

As the projects advance toward implementation, significant opportunities are emerging for investors, infrastructure funds, development finance institutions, engineering and construction firms, and strategic energy partners. Supported by strong government commitment, growing regional energy demand, and a favorable investment environment, these projects offer the prospect of stable long-term returns through infrastructure ownership, transportation tariffs, capacity agreements, and related commercial opportunities. Investors are invited to participate in shaping East Africa's next generation of energy infrastructure and to partner in delivering projects that will drive regional prosperity, energy security, and sustainable development for generations to come.

Uganda is entering a new phase of petroleum development, transitioning from discovery and exploration to production, value addition, and regional energy integration. Through prudent resource management, strategic infrastructure investments, and a robust regulatory framework, the country is positioning its petroleum resources as a catalyst for sustainable economic transformation, energy security, and shared prosperity within the East African region.

Somalia is entering a new era of prosperity in 2026, marked by the commencement of its first ultra-deepwater exploration well at depths of around 3,500 meters. This achievement places Somalia among the select group of nations capable of operating in technically demanding offshore environments, signaling its transformation into a modern energy frontier. For decades, Somalia’s petroleum potential was recognized but remained untapped; today, the country is poised to unlock vast reserves that could reshape its economic future and position it as a key player in East Africa’s energy landscape.

The petroleum story of Somalia stretches back to the mid-20th century. Early concession agreements and seismic surveys attracted major international oil and gas companies such as ExxonMobil, Shell, ConocoPhillips, and ENI. For decades, Somalia’s petroleum potential remained largely dormant, with only legacy data and scattered wells confirming a functioning petroleum system. Renewed momentum came in 2008 with the drafting of a petroleum law, followed by seismic campaigns in 2015 and 2016 that de-risked source rock presence. In 2018, a landmark resource-sharing agreement between the Federal Government and Member States clarified ownership, and the 2020 Petroleum Law established the Somalia Petroleum Authority (SPA) as the national regulator in 2022.

By 2023 and 2024, Somalia had signed multiple Production Sharing Agreements with Turkish Petroleum (TPAO), Liberty Petroleum, Coastline Exploration, and GulfSom. Offshore basins Obbia, Coriole, and Juba Lamu are now recognized as highly prospective, with tilted fault blocks, carbonate buildups, and mature Cretaceous source rocks offering diverse play types. The Juba Lamu Basin offers thick deltaic sequences and stacked traps, while the Obbia Basin presents Jurassic syn-rift reservoirs and carbonate highs with natural porosity. The Coriole Basin adds compressed structures and stratified subsurface layers, highlighting Somalia’s geological richness. Each of these basins represents a frontier opportunity, with the potential to deliver discoveries that could rival other prolific regions along the East African margin.

The scale of opportunity is immense. Somalia’s offshore acreage includes 247 licensable blocks, each covering up to 5,000 km², with 234 blocks still available for investment. This vast frontier offers one of the largest unexplored offshore regions in East Africa, positioning Somalia as a potential hub for new discoveries. These agreements are not just contracts; they are commitments to a shared vision of prosperity, where Somalia’s resources are developed responsibly and strategically to benefit both investors and the Somali people.

A central pillar of Somalia’s prosperity narrative is Liberty Petroleum Corporation. In 2024, Liberty signed a Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) for Block 131, covering nearly 5,000 km². The block comprises three stratigraphic levels, with closures mapped at the Lower Jurassic, Middle Jurassic, and Lower–Mid Cretaceous, hosting oil plays and extensive carbonate reef systems. Traps extend for tens of kilometers, offering significant exploration potential. Liberty’s entry is historic: only one offshore well has ever been drilled in Somalia, and that was in shallow waters. While advanced 3D seismic acquisition has previously been introduced in Somalia, this program represents the first application in Block 131 and brings the potential for ultra-deepwater drilling. Somalia is estimated to hold up to 30 billion barrels of oil reserves.

The company’s leadership has emphasized that the agreement reflects more than a decade of dialogue and preparation, designed to deliver maximum benefit to the Somali people. Liberty Petroleum’s presence signals strong investor confidence and demonstrates Somalia’s ability to attract serious international partners willing to commit capital, technology, and expertise to frontier exploration. This partnership highlights Somalia’s readiness to move from untapped potential to active development, ensuring that offshore discoveries contribute directly to national prosperity and long-term growth.

Equally transformative is the arrival of Turkey’s ultra-deepwater drillship Çağrı Bey. Deployed to Somalia’s Curad 1 well site, located about 370 km offshore Mogadishu, the vessel represents cutting-edge technology. Built in South Korea, the Çağrı Bey is a seventh-generation ultra-deepwater drillship measuring 228 meters in length with a 114-meter rig tower. It is capable of drilling to 12,000 meters total depth. The Curad 1 well targets a water depth of 3,500 meters, with drilling planned to extend 4,000 meters below the seabed to a total depth of 7,500 meters. If achieved, Curad 1 would rank among the world’s deepest offshore wells. The location was selected after TPAO’s seismic vessel Oruç Reis collected 3D data across 4,465 km² in 2024–2025. The deployment of Çağrı Bey demonstrates Somalia’s ability to host ultra-deepwater operations, a technical frontier that only a handful of nations have reached. This milestone is not only a technical achievement but also a symbol of Somalia’s determination to join the ranks of global energy powers.

Onshore, renewed exploration adds further promise. Blocks licensed to GulfSom and TPAO have confirmed oil and gas shows, reinforcing the presence of functioning petroleum systems across Somalia’s territory. Legacy wells such as Afgoi 3 and El Hamurre 1 demonstrated oil generative potential, and modern seismic archives now provide the tools to unlock these resources with precision. Together, offshore and onshore exploration create a balanced portfolio of opportunities that can sustain Somalia’s energy sector for decades to come.

Somalia’s leadership has emphasized that petroleum development will be managed transparently and responsibly, ensuring that discoveries translate into prosperity for the nation. The government has linked exploration directly to national development goals, including energy security, infrastructure modernization, and economic diversification. By reducing reliance on imported fuels and creating new revenue streams, Somalia’s petroleum sector is set to become a cornerstone of fiscal resilience and long-term growth.

The prosperity narrative is further strengthened by Somalia’s dual-track energy strategy. Alongside hydrocarbons, the government is investing in renewable energy projects such as solar plus storage plants and hybrid solar initiatives. These efforts aim to reduce reliance on imported diesel, expand electricity access, and integrate Somalia into the East African Power Pool. By pursuing both hydrocarbons and renewables, Somalia is positioning itself as a diversified energy player, capable of meeting domestic needs while contributing to regional stability.

The momentum of 2026 demonstrates Somalia’s transformation from a frontier to a rising energy power. With Liberty Petroleum’s deepwater exploration program underway, ultra-deepwater drilling by Çağrı Bey in progress, vast unexplored acreage available, and international partnerships expanding, Somalia is positioned to unlock prosperity on a scale never before realized. This is more than an energy project; it is the beginning of a new chapter in Somalia’s history, where hydrocarbons serve sovereignty, development, and the promise of a brighter future.

Often called “The Heart of Africa” and covers an area of 27,834km². Burundi is landlocked and borders with Rwanda, Tanzania and Democratic Republic of Congo, thus forming part of the Central African Region.

Various studies have been conducted since 1959 for petroleum exploration both on the Rusizi Basin and in the Lake Tanganyika Basin. These basins are part of the East African Rift System and are located between Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania and Zambia.

This Rift System is dated from Cenozoic (Tertiary) and is divided into two branches: the eastern arm and the western arm. Lake Tanganyika and the Plain of Rusizi belong to the western branch, which consists of sedimentary basins marked by deep Lakes (Malawi, Tanganyika).

In Burundi, these basins cover an area of 2,968.1km². Geological studies, gravimetric, aeromagnetic and seismic surveys have been conducted in the two basins, and the average sediment thickness is estimated at more than 3,000 meters.

HISTORY OF OIL EXPLORATION IN BURUNDI

Various studies have been conducted for petroleum exploration both on the Rusizi Basin and in the Lake Tanganyika Basin.

• 1946-1947: First study from the « Mission hydrobiologique au lac Tanganyika, led by E. Leloup,1949.
• 1961: sediment cores obtained by Livingstone (1965) and Degens et al., 1971);
• 1983-1984: ”Probe” academic seismic grid acquired by Duke University
• 1984: Kenting Aeromagnetic survey acquired
• 1984-1985: Project Geo-Rift studied lakebed geology, supported by Elf Aquitaine
• 1986-1987: Amoco acquire seismic onshore and drill 2 shallow dry wells:
  - Neogene section all sandstone, failed due to lack of seal
  - Expect rapid geological changes into lake to south with incoming of seals and source rock
• 2008-2017: Blocks A-D awarded to Surestream, Minergy, ABC Petroleum and A-Z Petroleum Products for petroleum exploration. 

LAKE TANGANYIKA TECTONIC ELEMENTS

Lake Tanganyika comprises several sedimentary basins separated by basement highs. The northern basins are predominantly of Neogene age, while the southern basins contain sequences that date back, in part, to the Permian period. Burundi's territorial waters encompass two of these basins, making them significant for understanding the lake's geological evolution and resource potential.

Burundi's territorial waters encompass two of these basins: the Ruzizi Basin, which is poorly constrained by seismic data but is estimated from aeromagnetic surveys to contain up to 4 km of sedimentary section, and the Kigoma Basin, which is well defined by seismic data and contains up to 5 km of sedimentary section in the adjacent Congolese waters.

Northern Lake Tanganyika Tectonic Elements

• Ruzizi and Kigoma Basins are separated by Ubwari Basement High.
• Faulting within each basin follows ancient Basement lineaments – Ubendian and Kibaran trends.
• High trapping potential at intersections of these trends

Northern Lake Tanganyika Seismic

• Section in onshore wells and absence of unconformities suggests section is entirely Neogene in age.
• Three stage evolution of basin apparent from seismic analysis.

West-East Play Cross-section

• Section across Kigoma Basin from deep in Congolese waters to southernmost Burundi block.
• Primary target believed to be basal sandstones developing in lowest seismic sequence.
• Charged from source rocks developed in deepest part of subsiding rift in second seismic sequence, mature in Congolese waters.

South-North Play Cross-section

 

•  Section through all Burundi blocks and basins from south to north.
• Ubwari High separates Kigoma and Ruzizi Basins.
• Play types in Ruzizi Basin likely controlled by sand input from palaeo-Ruzizi River: expect rapid facies changes and incoming of source rocks and seals south of Ruzizi 1 onshore well (illustrated).

Possible Oil Kitchens

• Other East African Rift Basins indicate that a sediment thickness of circa 2500m is required for oil generation.
• However, high geothermal gradients in Burundi onshore wells (>60 deg C/km) suggest maturity may be attained at around 1500m.
• Deep kitchens identified that should charge Burundian acreage within deepest parts of basins in Congolese sector.

PETROLEUM EXPLORATION BLOCKS
 

• The exploration areas of Rusizi and Lake Tanganyika basins have been divided into four blocks: A (793.1km²), B (697.1km²), C (664 km²) and D (813.4 km²).
• Block A is on Rusizi Basin which is onshore while blocks B, C and D are offshore in Lake Tanganyika basin from North to South respectively.

Future Activities in Burundi

Planning high quality seismic offshore using converted Tanganyika Explorer vessel from Bujumbura.

The Republic of Kenya is bisected by the Equator and East longitude 38°. The country shares borders with Ethiopia, Somalia, South Sudan, Uganda, Tanzania and the Indian Ocean.

Kenya at a glance

• Land area:       582,646 sq. km
• Capital city:     Nairobi
• Population:    > 53 million (2025)
• GDP growth rate:    4.6% (2025)
• Currency:        Kenya Shilling (KES)
• Official languages:    English and Kiswahili
• Government structure:    National Government and  47 County Governments
  
  

The country enjoys a varied climate ranging from tropical to temperate and is enriched with a wide heritage of natural resources, which allows for a wide range of economic activities. In addition, the country has diverse wildlife, and thus a considerable acreage of land has been devoted to wildlife conservation habitats. These habitats include the famous Maasai Mara and Tsavo National Parks. All the Big Five animals of Africa are found within these habitats.

Petroleum Exploration History in Kenya

Petroleum exploration in Kenya began in the 1950s within the Lamu Basin. It was not until 2012 that the first commercially viable oil discovery was made in the Tertiary Rift, followed by significant gas discoveries in the offshore Lamu Basin. 

Kenya has four (4) sedimentary basins namely: Lamu, Anza, Mandera and the Tertiary Rift, covering an area of approximately 500,000km². The sedimentary basins are subdivided into 50 petroleum exploration blocks, of which 4 are licensed, and 46 are open for licensing to investors for oil and gas exploration. To date, 95 wells have been drilled by oil exploration companies in the four sedimentary basins.

 Petroleum Exploration Basins and Blocks Map

The well density is approximately one well for every 12,200km². This presents a unique opportunity for exploration companies to invest in this frontier region. Out of the 95 wells drilled, 42 had hydrocarbon discoveries/shows. This, therefore, confirms that all four sedimentary basins have mature hydrocarbon systems capable of accumulating economic reserves where all petroleum system elements exist.

Legal Framework

The First Petroleum Exploration and Production legislation in Kenya was enacted in 1984 by Parliament and revised in 1986 to give incentives and sufficient flexibility to attract international oil companies and therefore stimulate oil exploration in the country.  Currently, the governing legal frameworks are the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, the Petroleum Act, 2019 and Model Production Sharing Contracts (PSC). Petroleum Regulations are currently under development.

UPSTREAM PROJECTS

South Lokichar Field Development Project

The project targets development of six (6) fields within the South Lokichar Basin on phased and joint development strategy using shared infrastructure for viability. The Field Development Plan (FDP) was ratified by Parliament in February 2026 and the project is now in the development and production stage
 

South Lokichar Project

Phase 1: Production Plateau of 20,000 barrels per day with first oil expected by December 2026 utilizing Early Oil Production Facilities (EPF). Crude oil will be transported by trucks to Kenya Petroleum Refineries Limited (KPRL) for storage before export.

Phase 2: Production Plateau of 50,000 barrels per day from 2032 involving construction of a Central Processing Facility (CPF). Crude oil will be transported via rail to KPRL for storage before export.

Ongoing activities include community sensitization, stakeholder engagement, and land acquisition processes to facilitate project implementation and ensure alignment with regulatory, environmental and social requirements.

Petroleum Resource Assessment

This initiative is aimed at enhancing the understanding and evaluation of Kenya’s petroleum potential through comprehensive geoscientific studies. The project involves the evaluation, processing and reprocessing of existing geoscientific data as well as the acquisition of new geoscientific data across prospective sedimentary basins. The project will strengthen the promotion and marketing of Kenya’s upstream petroleum potential to local and international investors by providing reliable, accessible and modern geoscientific information.

Development of Natural Gas Resources and Infrastructure

Kenya is increasingly positioning itself as a prospective natural gas frontier within the East African region, supported by recent exploration studies indicating significant gas potential across its sedimentary basins. Current resource assessments estimate mean prospective gas resources within the country’s open exploration blocks at approximately 134 trillion cubic feet (tcf), highlighting substantial opportunities for future exploration and development. To accelerate investment in the natural gas sector, Kenya has identified ten high-potential exploration blocks located within the Anza and Lamu Basins. 

Detailed geoscientific atlases and promotional data packages have been developed for these blocks to support investor engagement and facilitate exploration activities by prospective upstream operators. Furthermore Kenya and Tanzania have entered into a bilateral agreement to undertake a feasibility study for the development of cross-border natural gas infrastructure between the two countries.

MID AND DOWNSTREAM PROJECTS

Promotion of use of Clean Cooking Gas in Public Institutions of Learning

The Government of Kenya, through the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, is implementing a nationwide Clean Cooking Gas Programme aimed at transitioning public learning institutions from the use of traditional biomass fuels to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) as the primary cooking fuel. 
 

Commissioned LPG Cylinder for a High School in Kenya

This initiative supports the Government’s National Tree Growing and Landscape Restoration Campaign, which targets the planting of 15 billion trees by 2032 and seeks to reduce deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation.

Promotion of LPG Uptake and Reticulation for Affordable Housing Program (AHP)

The Government is executing a strategic project to enhance Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) uptake through integrated reticulation systems within the Affordable Housing Programme (AHP). The initiative is anchored on public and private partnerships to finance and develop LPG reticulation infrastructure. This intervention forms part of the National LPG Growth Strategy, which aims to scale up clean cooking adoption, increase LPG per capita consumption from 7kg to 15kg per annum and achieve 70% national penetration by 2028.

Security of Supply of Petroleum Products

Kenya and the wider region rely entirely on imported petroleum products to meet demand, with approximately 60% of imports serving the domestic market and 40% supporting regional distribution. The Government ensures security of supply through structured import planning, vessel scheduling and strategic inventory management facilitated under a Government to Government (G to G) framework.

Eldoret – Kampala - Kigali Product Pipeline

This is a proposed regional petroleum infrastructure project under the Northern Corridor Integrated Projects (NCIP) framework designed to support economic integration, stimulate industrial growth and improve energy access across the region.

CROSS-CUTTING PROJECTS

Development of the National Petroleum Policy

The National Petroleum Policy was approved by Cabinet in December 2025 and is currently under consideration by Parliament for adoption as a Sessional Paper.

Development of the Kenya National Petroleum Master Plan 

The development of the Master Plan is currently underway. The objective of the Master Plan is to provide detailed description of the policy and investment decisions to be made by the Republic of Kenya across the entire petroleum value chain.

Development of Upstream and Midstream Regulations

Kenya is in the final stages of developing a comprehensive regulatory framework for the upstream and midstream petroleum sectors covering key areas including management and administration of petroleum operations, local content requirements, crude oil transportation and occupational health and safety standards. Once finalized, the regulations will be gazetted to enable formal implementation.

Review of the Petroleum Act Cap. 308

The Petroleum Act Cap. 308 is currently under review to enhance the regulatory and investment framework governing the petroleum sector. The review also seeks to align the legal framework with emerging industry trends and technologies.