As the East African Petroleum Conference and Exhibition (EAPCE’25) commences, the region finds itself at a crossroads, poised to define its energy future. With substantial untapped oil and gas reserves, East Africa is becoming a hotspot for investment, and the decisions made at this conference could catalyze significant shifts in the global energy market.
The conference, inaugurated by Tanzania’s President, Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, isn’t just another industry gathering. It’s a strategic summit that brings together the region’s policymakers, investors, and industry leaders to navigate the complexities of exploration, investment, infrastructure, and policy frameworks. With over 1,000 delegates expected, the event will serve as a dynamic platform for investment, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration among East African Community (EAC) member states.
Tanzania, Kenya, and Rwanda are all launching ambitious licensing rounds, opening up new exploration blocks that could attract significant investor interest. Tanzania’s 5th Licensing Round, focusing on onshore and offshore blocks, aims to draw investors to areas like Mnazi Bay North and West Songo Songo. Kenya, building on its discoveries in the South Lokichar Basin, is inviting investors to explore new frontier blocks with pipeline potential. Rwanda’s entry into the regional energy landscape signals a new era of exploration and potential discoveries.
Natural gas is emerging as a cornerstone of East Africa’s energy strategy. Tanzania, for instance, has already demonstrated the transformative power of gas, with 34% of its power generation now sourced from natural gas. Eng. Felchesmi Mramba, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, underscores this commitment, stating, “We are committed to ensuring that gas plays a crucial role in East Africa’s industrialization, energy access, and economic growth.”
The discussions at EAPCE’25 will likely revolve around Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) development, domestic gas markets, and regional trade. For East Africa to maximize its petroleum potential, robust policy frameworks and cross-border cooperation are essential. Tanzania and Mozambique have already enacted gas-specific laws, while Kenya and Uganda are refining their petroleum policies to ensure regulatory stability and investor confidence. Harmonizing policies across EAC states will be a critical discussion point, aimed at creating a cohesive investment environment that fosters long-term growth.
Beyond oil and gas, the conference will also delve into energy transition strategies and the role of cleaner fuels. As the region positions itself in the global energy market, the decisions made at EAPCE’25 will shape its energy trajectory for years to come.
The implications for markets are profound. East Africa’s burgeoning oil and gas sector could attract significant foreign direct investment, driving economic growth and job creation. The region’s focus on natural gas could also reshape global energy dynamics, providing a cleaner alternative to coal and oil, and potentially reducing dependence on imports from other regions.
However, the path forward is not without challenges. The region must navigate environmental concerns, ensure sustainable development, and manage the complexities of cross-border cooperation. The success of East Africa’s energy transition will depend on its ability to balance these competing priorities while fostering a supportive investment climate.
As investors, policymakers, and industry leaders gather in Dar es Salaam, the stage is set for transformative decisions that will drive East Africa’s oil and gas sector forward. The region’s energy future is not just a matter of potential; it’s a reality in the making, shaped by visionary leadership and strategic collaboration. The decisions made at EAPCE’25 will not only define East Africa’s energy landscape but also ripple through global markets, signaling a new era of opportunity and growth.
Imagine the morning bustle in Dar es Salaam, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air, and the vibrant energy of a region on the cusp of transformation. Tanzania, under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, is not just participating in the global energy conversation; it’s leading it. The country’s commitment to cleaner cooking energy, coupled with its vast natural gas reserves, positions it as a beacon of sustainable development.
Tanzania’s push for oil and gas exploration is not just about economic gains; it’s about providing cleaner, more efficient energy
