The Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) has announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Minjingu Mines & Fertilizer Company Ltd of Arusha to join forces in performing detailed assessments in the Songo Songo West license.

According to TPDC’s Managing Director, James Mataragio (photo) the agreement between Minjingu and TPDC has provided the chance to carry out professional evaluations which includes data on the Songo Songo West block, owned by TPDC.

The aim of these evaluations is to look for sediment that can store oil or natural gas.

“TPDC already has a wealth of data on the Songo Songo West Block and will work closely with the Minjingu to ensure success in this project. If there will be a positive result then the other steps of the survey, including drilling will follow,” Mataragio said adding that the deal commits both sides to work together for one year.

Meanwhile, the Director of Minjigu, Hans Pardeep, has said that local firms will work with the highest order of professionalism while cooperating with TPDC to make sure that success is achieved as that company is the first to work together with TPDC in the exploration of oil and gas.

“If gas is discovered it will then be utilized in the fertilizer project with which we are joint ventures partners with TPDC, Ferrostaal from Germany, Haldor Topsoe of Denmark and Fauji of Pakistani,” Hans told Oil News Kenya.

Anita Fatunji