The Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA) participated in the inspection and testing of the rig that will be used to drill three natural gas wells in the Mnazi Bay Block, located in the Mtwara Region.

The inspection and testing of the rig, conducted in Tianjin Province, China, aimed to assess its strength and efficiency prior to shipment to Tanzania for the drilling campaign scheduled for November 2025.

PURA also participated in the assessment of various systems on the rig to ascertain their performance and to ensure that the pipes intended for drilling are fit for purpose..

This stage is critically important for gaining a general understanding of the rig's performance before actual drilling commences.

As the regulator of petroleum operations in Mainland Tanzania, PURA serves as the overseer of the project and is committed to ensuring its smooth implementation in accordance with the approved plan.

The wells to be drilled, namely MS-2, MB-5, and Kasa-1X, are expected to increase natural gas production by 30 million standard cubic feet per day.