Julius Nyerere Hydropower project nears completion

By Agnes Njaala, Rufiji

Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) officials visited the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project on December 19, 2024, to inspect the progress and ask workers to finish installing the remaining four turbines quickly. 

During the visit, TANESCO Managing Director Gissima Nyamo-Hanga said that five turbines (Turbines 9, 8, 7, 6, and 5) are fully installed and producing electricity.

"We came here to see how the work is going and to stress the need for proper supervision of the unfinished parts. The project is 99.55% complete. Electricity production has already started, with 1,175 megawatts from the five turbines added to the national grid," he said.

He added that the installation of Turbine 4 is complete and being tested. The installation of Turbine 3 is more than 87% done, which shows that the work is moving well.

Mr. Nyamo-Hanga asked the workers to stay focused and ensure all tasks are completed according to the project’s plans.

"Please make sure the turbines work perfectly so that the electricity connects to the national grid without any issues," he said.

He also thanked President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government and the Ministry of Energy for their support. He said their help with funding and collaboration has been key to the progress of this project and many others across the country.

"I promise all Tanzanians that we at TANESCO will work hard to ensure this project is completed on time. It will bring big economic and social benefits to our country," Mr. Nyamo-Hanga said.

The Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project is already promising a better electricity supply in Tanzania. It is one of the key efforts by President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s government to improve the country’s energy sector.

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Dr. Biteko launches 400kV power line linking Chalinze and Dodoma

By Alfred Zacharia

Tanzania has taken a monumental step in its energy sector by launching the 400kV Chalinze-Dodoma power transmission line and expanding substations in Chalinze (Pwani Region) and Zuzu (Dodoma Region). 

The project, inaugurated by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Hon. Dr. Doto Biteko, marks a transformative moment in the country’s quest for reliable energy distribution and regional power trade.

“This project demonstrates the government's commitment to providing sustainable and reliable electricity for every Tanzanian. It reflects the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has prioritized energy projects to drive economic growth and social transformation,” said Dr. Biteko during the launch ceremony.

The initiative is a key enabler for transmitting electricity generated by the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP) to various regions across Tanzania, including the Northern, Lake, Southern Highlands, Central, and Western Zones.

 It will also support industrial and mining operations while enhancing electricity trade with neighboring countries in Eastern and Southern Africa.

Dr. Biteko emphasized the significance of the development, noting that Tanzania now leads Africa in electricity distribution, as recognized by the World Bank. 

“Our installed electricity capacity has reached 3,169.26 MW, far exceeding the peak demand of 1,888.72 MW. This milestone underscores our country’s rapid economic growth and increasing energy needs,” he added.

The JNHPP, a flagship project with a generation capacity of 2,115 MW, is now 99.6% complete. 

“So far, 1,175 MW from this project has been integrated into the national grid, solidifying Tanzania’s position as a regional leader in power generation,” said Dr. Biteko. 

He called for stringent action against individuals sabotaging energy infrastructure, describing such acts as a threat to national development.

Fully financed by the Tanzanian government at a cost of TZS 513 billion, the transmission project includes constructing a 345-kilometer line and expanding substations to support the national grid. 

The contractor, TBEA from China, has already received TZS 107.93 billion as part of the project’s funding. Completion is expected by September 2026.

“This project will enable us to transmit the 2,115 MW from JNHPP to all regions of Tanzania, ensuring improved electricity access while strengthening regional power trade through interconnections with Eastern and Southern Africa,” said TANESCO Managing Director, Engineer Gissima Nyamo-Hanga.

Beyond energy transmission, Dr. Biteko underscored the government's efforts to promote clean cooking energy solutions. 

“The government has subsidized 400,000 gas cylinders, offering them at half the market price to encourage Tanzanians to shift from charcoal and firewood to cleaner alternatives like gas and electricity. We urge all stakeholders to make efficient electric stoves affordable and accessible, especially to rural households,” he said.

Other dignitaries applauded the initiative. Minister for Home Affairs, Hon. Innocent Bashungwa, praised the project as a testament to President Samia’s vision of providing sustainable energy. 

“The government is investing heavily in energy infrastructure, and my ministry will ensure this infrastructure is protected from vandalism,” he said.

Deputy Minister for Energy, Hon. Judith Kapinga, hailed the launch as a landmark moment for Tanzania's energy ambitions. 

“This project is critical not only for our domestic needs but also for positioning Tanzania as a major player in regional power integration,” she said.

Wendy Hughes, the World Bank’s Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa, commended Tanzania’s progress. 

“Reliable electricity is essential for economic and social development. Tanzania’s efforts to strengthen its power grid set an example for Africa,” she noted, pledging continued support to help the country meet its goals, including providing electricity to 300 million people across the continent by 2030.

The Chalinze-Dodoma power transmission project is a testament to Tanzania’s vision of a modernized energy sector. It promises to meet the growing domestic energy demands and solidify the country’s role as a regional energy leader, driving industrial growth and fostering cross-border electricity trade.

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Tanesco highlights collaboration with development partners to strengthen Tanzania’s energy sector

 The Mombasa conference united EAPP members and energy stakeholders to advance sustainable energy. Photo: Courtesy

By The Respondent Reporter

The Managing Director of the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (Tanesco), Mr. Gissima Nyamo-Hanga, has emphasized the importance of partnerships with development allies in advancing the country’s energy infrastructure. 

Speaking at a recent regional energy conference in Mombasa, Kenya, Mr. Nyamo-Hanga underscored Tanesco’s commitment to fostering sustainable growth in Tanzania’s electricity sector while exploring innovative approaches to include private sector contributions.

“Development partners play a crucial role in enhancing electricity trade in Tanzania by supporting infrastructure projects in power generation and distribution systems,” he remarked.

Mr. Nyamo-Hanga acknowledged the involvement of private investors in power generation but clarified that electricity distribution and transmission systems remain under government control, and managed by Tanesco. 

However, he revealed that the government is actively evaluating strategies to engage the private sector in electricity transmission projects without compromising system stability.

In discussing Tanzania’s participation in regional electricity markets such as the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP) and the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP), Mr. Nyamo-Hanga highlighted the country’s potential to reap significant economic and strategic benefits.

Tanzania’s growing capacity for power generation, bolstered by substantial government investment, positions it as a key player in the regional electricity trade.

Geographically, Tanzania occupies a central location, serving as a natural link for electricity trade between northern and southern African nations. 

This strategic position could enable Tanzania to facilitate power transmission across borders, generating valuable foreign exchange earnings and solidifying its role in regional energy networks.

Mr. Nyamo-Hanga also noted the broader advantages of regional grid interconnectivity, which include improved energy security, enhanced grid stability, and increased integration of renewable energy sources. 

He explained that interconnected grids create a collective system reserve, offering opportunities to access cheaper electricity from the regional market while bolstering supply reliability.

The conference in Mombasa brought together member states of the EAPP and stakeholders in the electricity sector to discuss strategies for achieving sustainable energy goals. 

Mr. Nyamo-Hanga’s remarks highlighted Tanzania’s proactive approach to leveraging its strategic position and ongoing investments in the energy sector to ensure long-term benefits for the nation and its partners.

With a focus on collaboration and innovation, Tanesco’s vision reflects Tanzania’s commitment to becoming a pivotal player in Africa’s energy landscape.

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Wami-Ruvu Basin Board launches advanced water forecasting and resource management system

 

By Lilian Kasenene

 Morogoro--The Wami-Ruvu Basin Board has unveiled an advanced water forecasting system designed to monitor water levels in key water sources and provide timely updates to stakeholders.

The board's Director, Elibariki Mmasy, announced the development in Morogoro, emphasizing its role in enhancing water resource management and disaster preparedness.

Speaking to the press recently, Mr. Mmasy explained that the system integrates real-time data with weather forecasts to assess water flow and predict levels in rivers and reservoirs. 

This capability extends to identifying potential flood risks, offering critical insights to safeguard communities and resources.

“We have developed a system that measures water flow and forecasts levels across various water bodies. Updates will be issued every ten days to ensure we have a clear picture of the water situation,” said Mr. Mmasy. 

He noted that the board oversees key water sources, including the Ruvu River, which supplies water to Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Pwani, and Morogoro regions, ensuring they have sufficient water for their needs.

The director also highlighted ongoing challenges, such as unauthorized farming, grazing, and sand mining near water sources. Despite continuous public education campaigns and collaboration with village leaders, these activities persist. 

He urged residents to respect the 60-meter buffer zone around water sources, a legal requirement aimed at protecting these vital areas.

“Our efforts to protect these zones are for the benefit and future of our nation. We ask everyone to comply and prioritize sustainability,” he added.

Paschal Joseph, a Ruvu sub-basin manager, shared progress in restoring degraded rivers. He revealed that the board had rehabilitated over 16 kilometers of rivers affected by human activities.

Joseph also encouraged communities and agricultural stakeholders to build rainwater harvesting ponds during the rainy season to address water scarcity during dry periods.

Morogoro Press Club chairman Nickson Mkilanya, called for continued collaboration between the board and journalists. 

He assured the board of the media's commitment to raising public awareness about the Wami-Ruvu Basin Board’s efforts and importance.

“Our doors are always open. Journalists have a responsibility to inform citizens about critical issues, and we stand ready to support this mission,” said Mkilanya.

This initiative marks a significant step in ensuring the sustainable use of Tanzania's water resources, benefiting both the environment and communities dependent on these essential systems.

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EWURA board expresses satisfaction with progress on Geothermal Power Projects

By Alfred Zacharia

The Board of the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) has expressed its satisfaction with the ongoing development of geothermal power projects in the Ngozi (70 MW) and Kyejo-Mbaka (60 MW) areas. 

The assessment was carried out during a visit on December 10, 2024, led by the Chairman of the EWURA Board, Prof. Mark Mwandosya, to evaluate the progress of these key strategic projects.

Speaking during the visit, Prof. Mwandosya emphasized the critical importance of diversifying the sources of electricity generation, including harnessing geothermal energy, to ensure broader access to reliable and affordable power across the country. 

“It is now essential that we increase investments in alternative power generation sources, particularly geothermal, to guarantee citizens access to reliable and affordable energy. Energy is the cornerstone of development, and it is vital that we maximize the efficient use of our natural resources,” Prof. Mwandosya said.

He also commended the Tanzania Geothermal Development Company (TGDC) for its ongoing efforts to push the projects forward. Prof. Mwandosya expressed his appreciation for the company’s commitment not only to project development but also to building human capital. 

He highlighted the significance of such investments in training, noting that a skilled workforce is essential for the long-term sustainability and success of the energy sector. 

“TGDC’s work goes beyond advancing geothermal projects; they are also investing in people. The future of the energy sector depends on a knowledgeable and skilled workforce,” he added.

The visit was attended by Hon. Aurea Bigirwamungu, the Acting Director of Electricity at EWURA, who represented the Director-General of EWURA. 

In her remarks, Hon. Bigirwamungu reaffirmed EWURA’s commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure the successful completion of the geothermal projects. 

“We have made a strong start, and we are committed to working together to ensure these projects are successfully completed,” she stated.

The geothermal power projects at Ngozi, Kyejo-Mbaka, and Songwe are expected to significantly contribute to the country’s energy production capacity, providing clean and affordable power. 

These projects are seen as a critical component in improving energy access, fostering economic development, and advancing Tanzania’s renewable energy ambitions.

By advancing these geothermal projects, Tanzania is positioning itself as a leader in the utilization of clean energy, which will not only benefit the national economy but also promote sustainable development across the region.

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