$42 billion LNG project in Lindi promises thousands of jobs and economic growth

Lindi. Lindi Municipality in southern Tanzania is gearing up for a transformative development with the construction of a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) processing plant.

The project, estimated to take four to six years to complete, is expected to create 1,000 contractual jobs and 500 permanent positions upon its completion.

During a visit to the project site on Friday, 10 January 2025, Norway’s Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, Andreas Kravik, expressed his satisfaction with Tanzania’s progress on this significant initiative.

He assured stakeholders of Norway’s readiness to support the early implementation of the project, underscoring its importance to Tanzania’s economic growth.

“Tanzania has made remarkable progress. Having seen and been briefed on the project site, I can confidently assure you that we are fully prepared and committed to facilitating the prompt execution of this major development in Tanzania,” said Deputy Minister Kravik.

The Regional Commissioner for Lindi, Zainabu Telack, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the government’s efforts to ensure the smooth implementation of the project.

She confirmed that all necessary groundwork, including compensation for affected landowners and project design planning, has been successfully completed.

“All affected residents have been compensated, and detailed project designs have been finalised. Everything is on track to ensure this project’s success,” Telack said.

Local residents have also lauded the government’s commitment to the project. Jafari Abdul, a Lindi resident, expressed gratitude for the economic opportunities the LNG plant will bring to the region, particularly for small businesses and local entrepreneurs.

“This project is a game-changer for Lindi’s economy. It will not only create job opportunities but also boost local businesses and improve incomes for many families. We are grateful to the government for bringing such a significant development to our region,” Abdul said.

The LNG processing plant, with an estimated cost of $42 billion, is poised to catalyse Tanzania’s economic growth.

The project will significantly enhance government revenue, create jobs, and improve the skills and expertise of the Tanzanian workforce.

The Deputy Minister of Norway was accompanied by Norway’s Ambassador to Tanzania, representatives from energy companies Equinor and Shell, and officials from the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC), who are overseeing the project.

As Tanzania continues to harness its natural gas resources, this project marks a pivotal step in driving industrialisation and fostering sustainable economic development in the region.