A new CNG mother station has opened in Dar es Salaam. This facility marks a major step in Tanzania’s shift to clean, affordable, and reliable energy. Moreover, it underscores the country’s growing commitment to sustainable development. Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba inaugurated the project on February 9, 2026. Notably, it is now the largest and most advanced CNG mother station in Africa. The initiative reflects a strong public–private partnership between the Tanzanian government and Puma Energy Tanzania.
The station is located in Tegeta. It will serve cars, buses, and heavy-duty trucks. In addition, it acts as a central hub for distributing CNG to daughter stations nationwide via tube-trailers. As a result, clean fuel access can expand well beyond Dar es Salaam. Furthermore, the government plans to increase the national CNG network from 11 to 20 stations by June 2026.
Tanzania holds about 57.54 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. Therefore, the country is strategically leveraging these reserves to promote cleaner transportation. Specifically, the long-term goal is for most vehicles to run on CNG by 2050. Deputy Minister for Energy Salome Makamba reaffirmed this vision during the launch. She emphasized that such projects are essential not only for economic growth but also for environmental protection.
Fatma Abdallah, Managing Director of Puma Energy Tanzania, described the station as more than just infrastructure. Indeed, she called it a symbol of long-term confidence in Tanzania’s future. Importantly, the government owns a stake in Puma Energy Tanzania. Consequently, commercial success directly translates into national benefits.
Prime Minister Nchemba praised the project as a model under the Sixth Phase Government. He highlighted its role in job creation, revenue generation, and strategic infrastructure. During construction, over 300 Tanzanian workers were employed. Of these, 100 held specialized roles as engineers and technicians. Additionally, local contractors and small businesses received significant opportunities. Thus, the project strengthened both the regional economy and technical capacity in the energy sector.
Financially, Puma Energy has demonstrated consistent performance. Over the past three years, it contributed more than Sh1.4 trillion in taxes and duties. In 2025 alone, it declared a Sh21 billion dividend. Moreover, the company has earned multiple awards from the Tanzania Revenue Authority for transparency and compliance. Treasury Registrar Nehemiah Mchechu noted that this joint venture proves how public and private collaboration can deliver vital infrastructure while generating national returns.
This CNG mother station also aligns with global sustainability efforts. Since natural gas burns cleaner than gasoline or diesel, its use reduces urban air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Accordingly, the Prime Minister urged other investors to support Tanzania’s clean energy transition. He stressed that innovation, combined with existing gas resources, can position Tanzania as a regional leader in clean fuel adoption.
Once fully operational, the station will provide sustained employment and enhance energy security. It will also accelerate the nationwide shift to CNG across transport and industry. Ultimately, with its scale, technology, and strategic role, this CNG mother station is not just an energy asset. Rather, it serves as a cornerstone for Tanzania’s economic resilience and environmental progress.
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