HELIUM One, the company leading helium gas exploration in Tanzania, has paid over 100m/- in compensation to residents of four villages in Momba District, Songwe Region, paving the way for its ongoing drilling and extraction activities.

Residents of Itambula, Lwatwe Masanyinta, Mkonko and Muungano received compensation for land allocated to the company, which has been conducting research and drilling operations since launching its project in 2015.

The compensation was confirmed on Tuesday during a site visit by officials from the Ministry of Minerals and members of the press.

Emmanuel Gachocha, the project supervisor, said the funds were distributed in full compliance with Tanzanian land laws and in a transparent manner.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to responsible investment and community engagement,” said. “The payments were processed transparently and in line with the law.”

Since its inception, the Helium One project has completed seismic surveys and exploratory drilling, with major developments occurring between 2021 and 2025, including the drilling of four wells. The Itumbula West 1 and Tai 3 wells have shown particularly promising helium concentrations.

According to Gachocha, Extended Well Testing (EWT) at the Itumbula 1 well revealed helium purity levels of 7.9 percent, while subsequent surface tests indicated 5.5 percent—both above commercially viable thresholds.

“This is a long-term venture expected to span more than 20 years. We believe it has the potential to position Tanzania as a key player in the global helium industry and boost our energy and mining sectors,” he added.

Chone Malembo, Regional Mining Officer, emphasized the strategic role of Songwe Region in Tanzania’s helium development. “Songwe is poised to lead the nation in helium production. This project will boost local development and significantly increase revenue,” he said.

 He reported that in the 2023/2024 financial year, Songwe generated more than 37bn/- from mining activities. In just the third quarter of 2024/2025, the region has already collected 36bn/-, with expectations to reach 40bn/- by the end of the fiscal year.

Venosa Ngowi, geologist with the Ministry of Minerals highlighted Tanzania’s helium potential, especially in the Rukwa and Eyasi-Wembere basins.

“Helium is essential to numerous advanced technologies—including MRI scanners, aerospace and space exploration,” Ngowi noted. Local residents, once skeptical about the compensation process, expressed gratitude.

“We were unsure if we’d receive our dues, but now we’re thankful to both the government and Helium One,” said Suleiman Mwashiuya, a resident of Itambula. “We hope this project not only brings jobs but also improves infrastructure like roads and water supply.”

Globally, top helium producers include the United States, Russia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Algeria. With the current momentum, Tanzania could soon find its place on that list.