The Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA)'s efforts in overseeing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) issues have consistently yielded the desired positive outcomes.

With PURA’s guidance, directives, and oversight, companies involved in the exploration, development, and production of oil and gas in the country are now actively implementing CSR-related projects and programs.

In the year 2024/25, for istance, twenty-three (23) youths from the Lindi Region have been sponsored by Equinor Tanzania and Shell Exploration and Production Tanzania Ltd to pursue vocational training at VETA Lindi.

These youths received training in a range of courses, including electrical installation, textile technology, welding and metal fabrication, masonry and bricklaying, design and sewing, motor vehicle mechanics, as well as refrigeration and air conditioning.

The sponsorship package also included startup kits to empower the youths to pursue self-employment.

The graduation ceremony to confer certificates to the graduates was held on June 10, 2025, at VETA Lindi, with the Lindi District Commissioner, Hon. Victoria Mwanziva, serving as the chief guest.

In addition to commending Equinor and Shell Tanzania for sponsoring the program, Hon. Mwanziva also lauded PURA for taking a leading role in ensuring that communities located within areas where petroleum operations are conducted benefit from CSR initiatives.

DC Mwanziva urged Lindi youth to seize the sponsorship opportunity for the 2025/26 year announced by Equinor and Shell Tanzania, with the application deadline set for June 13, 2025.

Since its inception in the 2022/23 year, this program has benefited a total of 71 youths from the Lindi Region.