Monday, 15 September 2025

Aminex Turns the Corner: Tanzania's Largest Onshore Gas Field Enters Construction Phase

Government Support, Strategic Partnerships & Imminent First Gas Position Aminex as a Long-Term Growth Play




🚧 Boots on the Ground: Construction Has Begun

Aminex has officially entered the construction phase of the Ntorya Project—Tanzania’s largest onshore gas development. It’s a major step forward for the company and a defining milestone for Tanzania’s energy future.

“This project is of national importance,” says Executive Chairman Charles Santos.
“It’s a path to sustainable growth for Aminex and long-term economic benefits for Tanzania.”


Strategic Position in Tanzania’s Energy Landscape

Aminex is one of the few listed companies with deep roots in Tanzania’s energy sector. The company entered the country in 2002 and was behind the first gas-to-power delivery from Songo Songo Island in 2016. Now, with the Ntorya gas field, Aminex is again at the center of a high-impact development.

“There’s only one other listed company with our Tanzanian focus,” Santos notes.
“That offers a unique opportunity for investors seeking direct exposure.”


🤝 ARA Partnership: A Game-Changer

Following financial restructuring and strategic repositioning, Aminex completed a farm-out in 2020 to ARA Petroleum Tanzania, which now holds 75% and operates the Ntorya field. Aminex retains a 25% interest but is fully carried through $140 million of project costs, significantly de-risking its position.

“The project has been sufficiently de-risked,” says Santos.
“We’ve got a 25-year development license, and government funding is in place for the pipeline. We’re approaching revenue.”


💡 Project Momentum: What’s Already Done?

  • EPC contract awarded to two Chinese engineering firms (CPP & CPTDC)

  • Pipeline mobilisation starting September 2025, construction kicks off January 2026

  • First gas expected July 2026, Aminex revenue begins ~1 month after

  • NT-2 well already ready for hook-up, with NT-1 and CH-1 to follow

  • Initial production of 60 mmcf/day, ramping up to 140 and then 280 mmcf/day in phases

  • Government has approved funding and support, signalling long-term commitment


📈 Scale and Geology: East Africa’s Largest Onshore Gas Find

The field spans over 300 km² and is estimated to contain 3.45 trillion cubic feet of gas in place.

“We expect to recover 75% of that over 35 years,” says Technical Director Tom Mackay.
“That aligns with our license and gives us an incredibly strong, long-term cash flow profile.”


Why Ntorya Matters to Tanzania Now

Tanzania faces a chronic electricity shortfall. While offshore projects are years away, Ntorya offers immediate, onshore, cost-efficient gas—perfect for power generation and industrial growth.

“Tanzania needs gas now—not in five or ten years,” says Santos.
“Ruvuma fills that urgent niche.”

The government’s commitment is evident:

  • 🏗️ Fully funding pipeline infrastructure

  • 📜 Committed through TPDC’s back-in rights

  • 🔁 Working to accelerate drilling approvals and regulatory support


💬 Aminex Outlook: From Survival to Sustainability

In 2020, Aminex was on the edge—struggling with declining production, paused deals, and COVID-related delays. But fast forward to today, and it’s a different story:

“We’ve survived the hard part,” says Santos.
“Now we’re on the road to stable cash flow and long-term growth. Aminex is back.”

With over $200 million already invested in Tanzania, Aminex is poised to start generating revenues within a year. Once cash flow starts, the company plans to:

  • Revisit its Kiliwani asset (potential 3D seismic and reactivation)

  • Renegotiate and reshape the Nyuni Area licence

  • Continue expanding Ruvuma’s output and infrastructure


🧠 Investor Takeaway:

  • ✅ Construction is now underway

  • ✅ Revenue expected Q3 2026

  • ✅ Long-term licence with major gas reserves

  • ✅ De-risked by carry structure

  • ✅ Supported by government infrastructure and policy


🚀 Final Word from the Chairman

“We’re very optimistic. This is no longer a ‘potential’ story—it’s execution now. Our future is production, revenue, and long-term impact.”