OIL and gas exploration has started in the Eyasi–Wembere Basin, marking a major step in efforts to unlock the country’s natural resource potential, a campaign rally was told yesterday.

CCM presidential candidate Samia Suluhu Hassan said at a campaign rally in Iramba District, Singida Region yesterday that the government is working to ensure that natural resources directly contribute to the well-being of communities.

Energy and minerals projects will be pursued responsibly and strategically, she said, noting that the Eyasi–Wembere project, which is already underway, will open up new opportunities for investments and create long-term benefits for communities in the zone.

The Eyasi–Wembere exploration block, which extends across five regions — Singida, Tabora, Shinyanga, Simiyu and Arusha — has been identified as one of the country’s most promising areas for oil and natural gas, she said.

Exploration activities are being closely monitored to ensure both environmental protection and sustainable development, she said, pledging key irrigation, infrastructure and agricultural projects to accelerate development in the district.

Addressing residents of Ishishi village in the district, she said that a 30bn/- major irrigation scheme is underway to enable farmers to cultivate throughout the year. “We are committed to expanding irrigation so that farmers are no longer dependent on seasonal rains. This project will be a turning point for the people of Iramba,” the candidate declared.

Oil and gas exploration, alongside irrigation and infrastructure development, will remain central to the government’s agenda, as the projects can transform communities and sustain long-term growth.

Several key roads will be constructed to tarmac level to open up the district, including the Kiomboi–Kidaru–Tulya, Iguguno–Kinyangiri–Duguti, and Kitukutu–Msingi–Mkalama routes, she said. Pointing at investments in education, with more schools set to be built in the district.

She cited progress in the agriculture sector through the warehouse receipt system, boosting transparency by connecting farmers directly with buyers and removing middlemen.

She remarked that the government is liaising with Indian authorities to export pigeon peas and green grams, creating new markets for farmers in the region, to which Jesca Kishoa, .the Iramba East parliamentary candidate, echoed residents’ concerns, calling for the 89km Mkalama–Simiyu road to be upgraded to tarmac level to ease transport.

Dr Mwigulu Nchemba, senior cabinet minister and Iramba West candidate, praised Samia as a visionary leader, pointing at large amounts of funds channeled into key social services in education, health, water, infrastructure and energy, significantly improving livelihoods.