Practical steps from wellhead to Madimba — what could happen next
When people think of Ntorya and Aminex, they picture wells and a pipeline. The Central Processing Facility (CPF) is the part in the middle that makes everything work. It’s where raw gas from the wells is prepared so it can safely and reliably enter the line to Madimba.
What a CPF does
At a high level, a CPF separates, conditions and compresses the gas:
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separates water and liquids,
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dries/conditions gas to pipeline specs,
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compresses it so it can flow to Madimba.
How it connects to the wells
Each producing well (e.g., NT-1, NT-2, and CH-1) would be linked to the CPF by flowlines. The CPF combines these streams into a single, spec-gas export to the main pipeline. Capacity can be phased so more wells can be added over time.
Where it could be located
Public information points to a location within the wider Nanguruwe/Ntorya ward area so that flowlines are short and road access is sensible. The exact plot is typically confirmed through regulatory steps and company notices; until then, it’s reasonable to assume siting close to the existing well cluster and on a clean line of route toward Madimba.
About testing and why it matters
A mobile test on NT-2 has been discussed to help fine-tune the processing set-up (for example, dehydration and compression requirements). Final equipment specification would normally reflect those test results. In parallel, enabling works at the CPF site (groundworks, civils, fencing, early foundations) can progress ahead of final kit selection, with long-lead equipment orders typically following once test data and approvals are in hand.
Schedule at a glance (indicative)
Subject to approvals and site conditions:
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Site preparation could proceed first (weeks to a few months).
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Equipment procurement and installation would typically follow confirmatory testing/approvals.
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Commissioning would then align with pipeline readiness so first gas can move without delay.
Team and logistics (typical ranges)
Based on similar onshore projects, peak on-site teams can be around 100–200 people, spanning civil, mechanical, E&I and commissioning, with local support for catering, logistics and security. Actual numbers vary with phasing and contractor strategy.
Budget context
Company guidance indicates the approved upstream facilities budget for this phase is intended to cover the CPF plus associated tie-ins, flowlines, manifolds and metering. Exact allocations are usually confirmed in subsequent updates and may be adjusted as testing and procurement progress.
Could start-up be modular?
Yes. A CPF can be delivered in modular packages (skid-mounted separation, dehydration and compression). This approach could enable phased start-up at lower initial rates while full capacity is built out, subject to approvals and commercial agreements.
Bottom line for investors
The CPF is the critical enabler between wells and pipeline. Enabling works may proceed while test results and approvals are finalised, and a modular, phased approach could support an earlier start if required. As company updates arrive (testing schedules, procurement awards, and first-weld milestones), they should help de-risk the timeline and confirm the path to first gas.
This article reflects current understanding and may evolve as formal notices and approvals are published.