UDSM, TPDC Launch TZS 1.52 Billion CNG Conversion Hub to Drive Tanzania’s Clean Energy Transition
UDSM, TPDC Launch TZS 1.52 Billion CNG Conversion Hub to Drive Tanzania’s Clean Energy Transition
By Zamda George, CMU
The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) and the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) have unveiled a state-of-the-art Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicle conversion workshop worth TZS 1.52 billion, marking a significant milestone in Tanzania’s transition to clean, affordable and sustainable energy.
The facility, fully financed and constructed by TPDC, was officially handed over to the University on 5th June, 2026 under a strategic partnership designed to promote the use of domestic natural gas resources, lower transportation costs and support national efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
The project stems from a June 2022 land lease agreement under which UDSM allocated land for the construction of a high-capacity CNG mother station. In return, TPDC committed to building and equipping a modern workshop that would enhance engineering training, research and innovation while expanding access to vehicle conversion services in Dar es Salaam.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, TPDC representative Mr. Derrick Moshi described the project as a model of effective collaboration between public institutions in advancing national development priorities.
“This facility demonstrates what can be achieved when public institutions align their strengths and resources. By combining the University’s academic excellence with TPDC’s industrial expertise, we are expanding access to affordable and clean energy solutions while contributing to sustainable development,” he said.
Valued at TZS 1,522,713,858.29, the facility comprises classrooms, administrative offices, sanitation facilities and a fully equipped workshop with specialized vehicle conversion bays, storage areas and modern diagnostic systems for natural gas vehicles.
Receiving the facility, on behalf of UDSM Vice Chancellor Prof. William A. L. Anangisye, the Deputy Vice Chancellor-Planning, Finance and Administration, Prof. Bernadeta Killian, described the workshop as a strategic investment that extends far beyond physical infrastructure.
“The importance of this workshop goes beyond the buildings and equipment. It supports the promotion of clean energy, enhances the utilization of Tanzania’s natural gas resources and contributes to the country’s vision of building a competitive, sustainable and industrialized economy,” she said.
Prof. Killian noted that the facility will strengthen the University’s role in producing highly skilled professionals while serving as a hub for practical training, research, innovation and community engagement in the energy sector.
“The project aligns with the Government’s broader agenda of promoting affordable energy solutions and increasing the use of domestic resources”, she emphasized.
She added that, as natural gas continues to emerge as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional fuels, the facility is expected to help reduce fuel expenses for motorists and institutions while contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
A strategic facility for vehicle conversion services, practical training, research and innovation
Prof. Killian, said the University has completed all preparations required to operationalize the facility, including the establishment of management structures, operational guidelines, quality assurance systems, occupational safety measures and financial management frameworks.
“This workshop is more than a building. It is a strategic facility designed to support vehicle conversion services, practical training, research and technological innovation in clean energy applications for the transport sector,” she said.
Prof. Killian added that the University has developed a comprehensive business and operational plan that will enable the facility to simultaneously provide professional vehicle conversion services, serve as a training centre for students and technicians, and support research and innovation in natural gas technologies.
She emphasized that the long-term success of the facility will depend on effective management, adherence to safety and regulatory standards, and sustained collaboration with stakeholders across the energy and transportation sectors.
With the facility now fully completed and ready for operation, UDSM and TPDC have called upon government institutions, private companies and individual vehicle owners to embrace natural gas technology by converting their vehicles to CNG.
The two institutions expressed confidence that increased adoption of natural gas-powered transport will contribute to lower operating costs, improved energy security and a cleaner urban environment, while accelerating Tanzania’s transition towards a greener and more sustainable future.