The Petroleum Upstream Regulatory Authority (PURA) of Tanzania, the Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU), and the Zanzibar Petroleum Regulatory Authority (ZPRA) signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 17 June 2025 in Entebbe, Uganda, to enhance collaboration in petroleum operations across the region.
The MoU, formalized during a ceremony attended by top officials, including the Chairpersons of PURA and PAU, establishes a framework for cooperation in petroleum resource management, petroleum data management, cost auditing, national content development, legal framework formulation, and the promotion of health, safety, security, and environmental standards in petroleum upstream activities.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Halfani Halfani, Chairperson of PURA’s Board of Directors, said: “Through this MoU, it is clear that petroleum exploration, development, and production activities in our countries are set to thrive.”
Ms. Lynda Biribonwa, Chairperson of PAU’s Board of Directors, stated: “The East African region is one of the most prolific frontier areas for oil and gas exploration and development. Collaboration among regulators is paramount to leverage the existing expertise and resources.”
Mr. Muhammed S. Said, Managing Director of ZPRA, noted, “By putting all of our resources together, we can all learn from each other and see how we take the industry forward for the benefit of all.”
Mr. Charles J. Sangweni, Director General of PURA, added that discussions for this MoU began about a year ago and expects the agreement to “strengthen our bonds” and facilitate data and experience exchange.
The tripartite MoU formalizes longstanding cooperation among Tanzania, Uganda, and Zanzibar in the oil and gas sector. The agreement aims to advance the sector’s growth by sharing knowledge, building capacity, and standardizing regulatory practices.
The visiting delegation also toured Uganda’s Albertine Graben to observe oil and gas operations ahead of Uganda’s First Oil. The partnership aligns with efforts to enhance investment and development in East Africa’s petroleum industry.
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