LINDI: The Acting Managing Director of the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC), Engineer Pachali Njiko, stated that the success of oil and natural gas projects is not measured solely by the value of the resources produced, but also by the sector’s contribution to improving the lives of citizens and fostering sustainable development for the communities surrounding these projects.
Engineer Njiko made these remarks on October 26, 2026, while presenting a progress report on the construction of the Likong’o Pre-primary and Primary School in the Lindi Region. The report was delivered during an inauguration ceremony attended by the Minister of Energy, Hon. Dr. Juma Zuberi Homera, who served as the guest of honor.
Engineer Njiko explained that the corporate social responsibility (community give-back) policy focuses on implementing major projects that address the actual needs of the citizens. This involves collaborating with the community to identify the challenges they face and developing joint strategies to resolve them.
He noted that this engagement has made it possible to identify and address critical community needs, including education, access to water, good governance, and sports.
He further stated that the construction of the Likong’o Pre-primary and Primary School was made possible through a partnership between the TPDC, Equinor, Shell, and their respective stakeholders, with a total investment value of 1.278 billion shillings. In this project, TPDC has contributed 26.68% of the costs, Shell 36.66%, and Equinor 36.66%.
He stated that this investment demonstrates how the energy sector continues to serve as a catalyst for social development and creates opportunities for future generations.
He noted that the school will provide students with an improved learning environment, which will help enhance the quality of education, expand their knowledge, and build a foundation for them to take advantage of future opportunities.
Regarding the project’s implementation, Engineer Njiko explained that construction began in July 2025 and includes seven primary school classrooms, two pre-primary classrooms, an 18-stall latrine block for the primary school, and a 7-stall latrine block for the pre-primary section.
Other infrastructure constructed includes an administration building, two storage rooms, an incinerator, 12 water storage tanks, two teachers’ houses, and school furniture, such as tables and desks.
He emphasized that TPDC will continue to collaborate with various stakeholders to ensure that investments in the oil and natural gas sector deliver tangible benefits to the public and foster sustainable community development.
