Saturday, June 13, 2026

URT Updates

Updates from the United Republic of Tanzania

URT Updates

Updates from the United Republic of Tanzania

Headlines

Government to Expand Electricity Infrastructure Nationwide

Wambura Mwikabwe2 mins

Tabora Region | 14 February 2026 — The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania has announced an ambitious plan to construct modern electricity receiving, step-down and distribution substations in every district to enhance power reliability and accelerate economic development.

The Minister for Energy, Hon. Deogratius Ndejembi, made the announcement while inspecting the 27-megawatt Uhuru Electricity Receiving and Step-Down Substation in Urambo District, Tabora Region, which serves both Urambo and Kaliua districts.

Strengthening Distribution for Economic Growth

Hon. Ndejembi emphasized that Tanzania currently generates sufficient electricity to meet national demand, with production exceeding consumption. However, he noted that the key challenge lies in strengthening transmission and distribution infrastructure, particularly in districts where electricity is transmitted over long distances.

He explained that expanding substation infrastructure will reduce transmission losses, improve supply stability and ensure that communities fully benefit from economic and social opportunities linked to reliable power access.

TANESCO to Improve Reliability

TANESCO Managing Director, Mr. Lazaro Twange, affirmed that the utility has received clear directives to address power interruptions and safeguard infrastructure. He confirmed that the Urambo substation is operational and will significantly improve service delivery in Urambo and Kaliua districts.

Industrial Investment and Job Creation

During the visit, Tabora Urban District Commissioner, Hon. Upendo Wella, commended President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for the Government’s investment of approximately TZS 7 billion in the construction of a concrete electricity poles manufacturing plant under TANESCO’s subsidiary, TCPM.

The facility is expected to support local employment and strengthen domestic capacity in electricity infrastructure development.

Advancing National Development

The nationwide expansion of substations forms part of the Government’s broader strategy to modernize electricity infrastructure, enhance industrial productivity, promote investment and improve living standards across the country.

Hon. Ndejembi’s tour focused on monitoring progress of energy projects in Tabora Region, including the Uhuru Substation in Urambo and the concrete poles manufacturing plant in Tabora Municipality.

X.com LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest More

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related News

Officials launch TANESCO’s electric vehicle charging station and On-Bill Financing programme for electric cookstoves in Dodoma, promoting clean energy, electric mobility, and sustainable development in Tanzania. The Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (TANESCO) has launched a nationwide initiative featuring electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and an On-Bill Financing (OBF) programme for electric cookstoves, marking a significant milestone in expanding electricity use and accelerating the country’s clean energy transition. Speaking during the launch in Dodoma on 11 June 2026, the Minister for Energy, Hon. Deogratius Ndejembi (MP), said the initiative demonstrates Tanzania’s commitment to embracing the global shift toward clean energy while improving livelihoods and stimulating economic growth. “This initiative expands the use of electricity beyond cooking to include transportation, with the objective of improving citizens’ quality of life, reducing the cost of living, and driving national economic growth,” said Hon. Ndejembi. He noted that continued government investment in the energy sector has enabled Tanzania’s electricity generation capacity to surpass 4,000 megawatts, providing a strong foundation for broader electricity adoption across key sectors of the economy. As part of efforts to promote electric mobility, TANESCO, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has received 50 state-of-the-art electric vehicle charging units** from AUTEL of China. The charging stations will be installed at strategic locations across the country to facilitate the growth of electric transportation infrastructure. Addressing the event, TANESCO Managing Director Mr. Lazaro Twange said the utility is positioning itself to lead the transformation of electricity consumption by leveraging the country’s expanding power supply. “The long-held perception that electricity is expensive and limited to lighting has changed significantly. Today, many Tanzanians use electricity for cooking and various productive activities, and the launch of electric vehicle charging stations opens an entirely new chapter in the adoption of clean energy across the country,” he said. In support of clean cooking initiatives, TANESCO has also introduced the On-Bill Financing (OBF) programme, enabling customers to acquire electric cookstoves through affordable financing arrangements and repay the cost gradually through their regular LUKU prepaid electricity purchases. Dodoma Regional Commissioner **Rosemary Senyamule commended TANESCO for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of promoting clean energy solutions nationwide. “I congratulate TANESCO for this strategic initiative, which creates new opportunities for clean energy adoption in Tanzania. Continued public awareness is essential to encourage the use of clean energy in both transportation and cooking, thereby accelerating development while protecting the environment,” she said. The launch of these initiatives marks a transformative step in broadening electricity utilisation beyond conventional household applications to transportation, clean cooking, and productive economic activities, reinforcing Tanzania’s commitment to building a green economy and achieving sustainable development.

TANESCO Launches EV Charging Stations and Electric Cookstove Financing to Drive Tanzania’s Clean Energy Transition

Wambura Mwikabwe0
History is often measured not by grand declarations, but by the moments when geography, economics, and political vision converge. The three-day State Visit of President Tharman Shanmugaratnam to Tanzania from 8–10 June 2026 was one such moment. Official ceremonies, state banquets, bilateral meetings and business roundtables are often viewed as routine features of diplomacy. Yet some visits carry significance beyond protocol. President Tharman's visit, the first ever by a Singaporean Head of State to Tanzania, appears to be one of those moments. As Tanzania and Singapore mark 45 years of diplomatic relations, both countries are signalling something larger than friendship. They are signalling strategic intent. What is unfolding in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar is not merely a celebration of past relations. It is the beginning of a conversation about the future. History is often measured not by grand declarations, but by the moments when geography, economics, and political vision converge. The three-day State Visit of President Tharman Shanmugaratnam to Tanzania from 8–10 June 2026 was one such moment. Official ceremonies, state banquets, bilateral meetings and business roundtables are often viewed as routine features of diplomacy. Yet some visits carry significance beyond protocol. President Tharman's visit, the first ever by a Singaporean Head of State to Tanzania, appears to be one of those moments. As Tanzania and Singapore mark 45 years of diplomatic relations, both countries are signalling something larger than friendship. They are signalling strategic intent. What is unfolding in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar is not merely a celebration of past relations. It is the beginning of a conversation about the future.

As Singapore Looks to East Africa, Tanzania Emerges as a Strategic Partner

Wambura Mwikabwe0
Managing Director of Tanzania Electric Supply Company, Mr. Lazaro Twange, inspecting the 400kV Chalinze–Dodoma electricity transmission project designed to transport power from the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project to central Tanzania. TANESCO: CHALINZE–DODOMA 400KV POWER TRANSMISSION PROJECT SET FOR COMPLETION IN AUGUST 2026 The Managing Director of Tanzania Electric Supply Company, Mr. Lazaro Twange, has announced that the 400-kilovolt power transmission line project from Chalinze to Dodoma is expected to be completed by August 18, 2026. Speaking on May 20, 2026 during an inspection tour of the project across the regions of Morogoro Region and Dodoma Region, Mr. Twange stated that the project is strategically important as it will transmit electricity generated directly from the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project through Chalinze to Dodoma. He noted that the implementation of the project is progressing alongside the expansion of power receiving and substation facilities in Chalinze and Zuzu, Dodoma. Upon completion, the project is expected to significantly improve electricity reliability to support industrial investment, economic productivity, and broader socio-economic opportunities across the country. Mr. Twange further explained that the Government under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan has allocated approximately TZS 514 billion for the implementation of the project, reflecting Tanzania’s continued investment in strategic energy infrastructure to meet rising electricity demand driven by population growth and expanding economic activities. “Today we inspected the electricity transmission line from Chalinze to Dodoma. This line is crucial in increasing the capacity to transmit electricity generated from the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project to various consumers. Population growth and economic activities have increased significantly, and we have now agreed that the project will be completed by August 18, 2026,” Mr. Twange emphasized. He expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved so far and directed the contractor to accelerate implementation to ensure timely completion of the project. “We have agreed to increase the number of technical experts and deploy sufficient equipment to ensure the project is completed within the agreed timeframe,” he added. Meanwhile, the Project Manager, Engineer Newtone Lingstone, stated that the 345-kilometre transmission line project from Chalinze to Dodoma is fully financed by the Government of Tanzania, while expansion works at the Chalinze and Dodoma power substations are progressing well. The completion of the 400kV Chalinze–Dodoma transmission line is expected to play a critical role in strengthening Tanzania’s national power grid, enhancing energy security, and supporting long-term industrialization and economic transformation.

Tanzania’s 400kV Chalinze–Dodoma Power Line Set for Completion in August 2026

Wambura Mwikabwe0
President Samia Suluhu Hassan meeting Aliko Dangote at State House in Dar es Salaam during discussions on strategic investments and industrial development in Tanzania. The President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, today held high-level discussions at the State House in Dar es Salaam with the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote. The discussions focused on strengthening strategic cooperation between the Government of Tanzania and Dangote Group across key sectors including energy, manufacturing, ports, natural gas, fertilizer production, and infrastructure development. Alhaji Dangote commended the Tanzanian Government for significantly improving the country’s business and investment environment, as well as for addressing critical challenges affecting investors. He noted that measures taken by the Government to resolve operational constraints facing the Dangote Cement Plant in Mtwara Region have substantially enhanced productivity, operational efficiency, and the company’s confidence in Tanzania as a strategic investment destination in Africa. “I sincerely wish to thank you for addressing many of the challenges affecting our investment at the Mtwara Cement Plant. When you assumed office, we faced numerous obstacles, but as you promised, every challenge has been effectively addressed,” Alhaji Dangote stated. In a further demonstration of its long-term commitment to Tanzania, Dangote Group has already introduced 400 natural gas-powered trucks into the country for cement transportation and distribution. The initiative forms part of a broader plan to convert 700 company trucks to cleaner energy usage in order to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs. Alhaji Dangote also revealed that the Mtwara cement plant continues to perform strongly and is projected to produce approximately 2.8 million tonnes this year, against a target production capacity of 3.2 million tonnes. “We are performing very well. I must thank Your Excellency for your leadership, because without your leadership, the market environment would not have been as conducive and productive for us to operate at this scale,” he added. The discussions further explored the possibility of a strategic partnership between Dangote Group and the Government of Tanzania in the implementation of a crude oil refinery project estimated at approximately US$17 billion, expected to serve countries across East Africa and Ethiopia. According to Alhaji Dangote, the proposed project could also create opportunities for other East African countries to participate through equity ownership, contributing to Africa’s broader ambition of strengthening regional energy self-sufficiency, reducing dependence on imported petroleum products, and enhancing resilience against global supply and price shocks. For her part, President Samia reaffirmed the Government’s continued support for strategic investors and encouraged Alhaji Dangote to explore additional business and investment opportunities in Tanzania that would generate mutual benefits for investors, the Government, and the nation at large. President Samia also invited Dangote Group to invest in fertilizer production in Tanzania, noting that domestic demand for fertilizer currently exceeds the country’s existing production capacity.

Dangote Commends Tanzania’s Investment Reforms, Explores US$17 Billion Refinery Partnership

Wambura Mwikabwe0
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba participating in the Africa–France Joint Dialogue on Agriculture in Nairobi alongside African and international leaders discussing food systems, agribusiness, and agricultural investment. The Prime Minister of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba (MP), participated in the Africa–France Joint Dialogue on Agriculture in Africa held on May 12, 2026, on the sidelines of the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya. The dialogue focused on strengthening Africa’s food and agricultural systems to make them more productive, sustainable, and resilient. The high-level discussion, moderated by renowned French development and finance expert Mr. Jean-Michel Severino, examined the current state of agriculture across Africa, including the sector’s key opportunities and persistent challenges. Contributing to the dialogue, Prime Minister Nchemba invited investors to capitalize on the improved investment environment created through Tanzania’s 2023 Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Act. He emphasized the importance of investing in agro-processing industries to ensure agricultural commodities such as coffee, cashew nuts, and sisal are exported as value-added products rather than raw materials. The primary objective of the forum was to identify and advance priority agricultural value chains that can strengthen trade and economic cooperation between African countries and France. The dialogue also explored opportunities to deepen strategic partnerships aimed at accelerating agricultural transformation for the mutual benefit of both Africa and France. In addition, discussions focused on mobilizing financial commitments from development partners, including the French Development Agency (AFD), Proparco, and African agricultural financing institutions. Other Tanzanian Government leaders who attended the strategic session included the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation responsible for East African Affairs, Hon. James Millya (MP), and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Mr. Gerald Mweli.

Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba Champions Agricultural Transformation at Africa–France Dialogue in Nairobi

Wambura Mwikabwe0
Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba in a bilateral meeting with Alvaro Lario in Nairobi discussing climate-resilient agriculture, food security, and agribusiness development initiatives for Tanzania. The Prime Minister of the United Republic of Tanzania, Hon. Mwigulu Nchemba, today, May 11, 2026, held talks with the President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development, Mr. Alvaro Lario, in Nairobi, Kenya, where the two leaders discussed a broad range of cooperation areas in agriculture and economic empowerment. During the meeting, Dr. Mwigulu reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with IFAD in strategic areas including climate-resilient agriculture, agribusiness development, digital transformation in agriculture, and economic empowerment for youth and women. The Prime Minister also noted that Tanzania looks forward to continued collaboration with IFAD in implementing agricultural development projects, including initiatives aimed at increasing sunflower production to support the availability of edible oil in the country. “It has been a productive meeting because we have maintained a longstanding partnership with IFAD, particularly in implementing projects that support productive sectors,” Dr. Mwigulu stated. “We are also committed to advancing the development of mixed crops, which in the past were viewed solely as food crops. Today, these crops have become commercial commodities and are increasingly contributing to Tanzania’s trade with other countries,” he added. Dr. Mwigulu further explained that Tanzania intends to expand cooperation with IFAD in the livestock sector as well as in marine resource development projects in Zanzibar. “In addition, we expect to work closely with IFAD in advancing sustainable agriculture initiatives that support our national campaign to address climate change,” the Prime Minister emphasized. For his part, IFAD President Alvaro Lario reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to ensuring that its programmes and implementation strategies align with the objectives of Tanzania’s National Development Vision 2050. “We are now awaiting Tanzania’s development priorities so that we can identify the most effective areas of support, particularly in food security, food self-sufficiency, and agricultural value addition,” Mr. Lario stated.

Prime Minister Mwigulu and IFAD President Deepen Tanzania’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda

Wambura Mwikabwe0
Tanzania and Canada have reaffirmed their commitment to deepen cooperation in renewable energy, oil and gas, and technical capacity building following high-level talks in Dar es Salaam. Tanzania and Canada have taken a significant step toward strengthening bilateral cooperation in the energy sector following high-level discussions held in Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s Minister of Energy, Deogratius Ndejembi, held talks with the Canadian Ambassador to Tanzania, Emily Burns, on April 28, 2026, aimed at enhancing collaboration in key energy areas. The meeting, held at the Ministry of Energy offices, focused on strategic initiatives to advance the energy sector in both countries. Key areas of discussion included expanding cooperation in renewable energy—particularly solar and wind power—technology transfer, and strengthening expertise through training and knowledge exchange. The two sides also explored opportunities in oil and gas exploration technologies, alongside joint efforts to promote sustainable growth and resilience within the energy sector. Officials emphasized that the partnership is expected to contribute to improved energy access, increased investment, and the adoption of innovative technologies that support Tanzania’s long-term development goals. The meeting was also attended by the Permanent Secretary responsible for Petroleum and Gas, underscoring the importance of the discussions in shaping future energy policy and international collaboration. The strengthened partnership reflects Tanzania’s broader strategy to diversify its energy mix and attract global partnerships in renewable and conventional energy resources.

East Africa’s Energy Ambitions Grow with Tanzania–Canada Partnership

Wambura Mwikabwe0
Dr Tausi Kida addressing National Planning Commission staff meeting in Dar es Salaam on Vision 2050 implementation and public service excellence Tanzania’s Planning Commission has called for increased professionalism, innovation, and collaboration among its staff to accelerate the country’s long-term development agenda under Vision 2050. The call was made by the Secretary for Planning and Executive Secretary of the National Planning Commission, Dr. Tausi M. Kida, during the opening of the Commission’s Workers’ Council meeting held in Dar es Salaam. Dr. Kida urged staff to embrace a results-oriented approach and adopt non-conventional ways of working to meet national expectations for building an inclusive, prosperous, just, and self-reliant society. She emphasized that the Sixth Phase Government, under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, places high expectations on the Commission to effectively execute its mandate with professionalism, dedication, and respect for public service values. The meeting, held under the theme “A Strong Public Service is the Foundation for Implementing Vision 2050,” brought together staff to review performance and align strategies with national development priorities. The National Planning Commission plays a central role in shaping Tanzania’s economic and social transformation, making internal efficiency and innovation key to achieving sustainable growth.

Tanzania Ramps Up Development Ambitions with Call for Innovation and Accountability Toward Vision 2050

Wambura Mwikabwe0
Tanzania and Malawi energy ministers meeting in Dar es Salaam to discuss petroleum transport and regional energy cooperation Dar es Salaam, March 25, 2026 — Tanzania and Malawi have taken steps to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the energy sector, with a focus on improving petroleum transportation systems between the two countries. The discussions were held between Tanzania’s Minister of Energy, Hon. Deogratius Ndejembi, and Malawi’s Minister of Energy and Mining, Hon. Dr. Jean Mathanga, during a meeting in Dar es Salaam. Minister Ndejembi reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to enhancing collaboration in the energy sector, emphasizing the importance of regional integration and reliable fuel supply chains for economic development. Dr. Mathanga expressed appreciation for Tanzania’s continued partnership, noting that the cooperation will play a key role in strengthening Malawi’s access to energy resources and improving efficiency in fuel transportation. The meeting also brought together senior officials, including Permanent Secretary for Petroleum and Gas, Dr. James Mataragio, alongside technical experts from both countries, highlighting a shared commitment to advancing sustainable and strategic energy partnerships.

Regional Integration Drive as Tanzania, Malawi Strengthen Energy Cooperation

Wambura Mwikabwe0
Tanzania Energy Minister Deogratius Ndejembi meeting IFC Regional Director Mary Porter in Dar es Salaam to discuss energy investment and electrification initiatives Dar es Salaam, March 25, 2026 — Tanzania has deepened its engagement with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to advance national energy priorities and expand private sector participation in the country’s energy sector. The discussions took place between Minister of Energy, Hon. Deogratius Ndejembi, and IFC Regional Director for East Africa, Ms. Mary Porter, focusing on the implementation of Tanzania’s National Energy Compact (Mission 300). During the meeting, Minister Ndejembi highlighted significant progress achieved under the Sixth Phase Government, noting that electricity generation capacity has increased to 4,500 megawatts, up from 1,500 megawatts in 2021. He also emphasized ongoing efforts to extend electricity access to all 12,318 villages nationwide, underscoring the critical role of the private sector in supporting these achievements. Ms. Porter commended Tanzania’s progress in the energy sector and reaffirmed the IFC’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote sustainable energy development and private investment. The meeting was attended by Energy Commissioner Eng. Innocent Luoga and technical experts from both the Ministry and IFC.

IFC and Tanzania Align on Expanding Power Capacity and Investment Opportunities

Wambura Mwikabwe0
×
X.com LinkedIn Instagram Pinterest