Tanzania–Zambia Power Link Set to Connect Rukwa to National Grid and Boost Regional Energy Trade
Related News
Tanzania and Rwanda Sign Landmark Energy Cooperation Agreement in the Presence of Presidents Samia and Kagame The President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, and the President of the Republic of Rwanda, His Excellency Paul Kagame, today, May 19, 2026, witnessed the signing of a bilateral cooperation agreement in the energy sector between Tanzania and Rwanda, a strategic step aimed at strengthening regional integration and enhancing energy security for both nations. The agreement was signed by Tanzania’s Minister for Energy, Hon. Deogratius Ndejembi, and Rwanda’s Minister of Infrastructure, Hon. Dr. Jimmy Gasore, during a ceremony held at the Kigali Convention Centre on the sidelines of the Second Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa 2026 (NEISA 2026), currently taking place in Kigali, Rwanda. The agreement outlines several key areas of cooperation, including cross-border electricity interconnection and power exchange between Tanzania and Rwanda to enhance regional energy reliability and security, implementation of joint electricity infrastructure projects, and the expansion of power trade between the two countries. Additional areas of collaboration include oil and natural gas exploration and development, petroleum products supply and distribution, investment opportunities within Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) projects, as well as the adoption of emerging technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, in advancing the energy sector. The ceremony was also attended by Tanzania’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Hon. Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo; Minister of Finance, Hon. Ambassador Khamis Omar; Zanzibar’s Deputy Minister for Water, Energy and Minerals, Hon. Dr. Seif Pandu; the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy responsible for Electricity and Renewable Energy, Engineer Felchesmi Mramba; alongside technical experts and senior officials from both governments.
The United Republic of Tanzania and the Republic of Zambia have reaffirmed their commitment to progressively eliminating trade barriers in order to facilitate the movement of goods, services, and people, as part of broader efforts to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation, trade, and investment between the two neighbouring nations.
The agreement was reached during the Ministerial Session of the Joint Trade Committee (JTC) held today, May 7, 2026, in Tunduma. The meeting brought together Ministers and senior officials from various sectors to review the implementation of resolutions from previous sessions and deliberate on emerging trade-related matters.
Speaking on the outcome of the meeting, Tanzania’s Deputy Minister for Industry and Trade, Hon. Denis Londo, representing the Minister responsible for the portfolio, stated that the two sides reviewed approximately 20 bilateral trade challenges and successfully resolved seven of them, while adopting both short-term and long-term strategies to address the remaining 13 issues.
Among the resolved matters were the harmonization of fuel measurement standards through a Mutual Recognition Agreement between the relevant measurement authorities to enhance efficiency and reliability in fuel verification processes; the lifting of Zambia’s night travel restrictions, allowing cargo trucks to operate 24 hours a day and thereby improving transport efficiency and trade flows; and improvements in cargo documentation and border management through the implementation of the first phase of customs data exchange systems and the commencement of the second phase of systems integration.
Other key resolutions included the removal of the 4,500 Kwacha transport permit fee imposed on Tanzanian transporters, a move expected to lower transport costs and improve competitiveness; the abolition of the USD 200 non-reciprocal business permit fee charged to Zambian transporters entering Tanzania, aimed at reducing business costs and improving trade efficiency; and the resolution of issues relating to the retention of Tanzanian drivers’ passports through enhanced awareness and training on border procedures.
Hon. Londo emphasized that resolving these challenges marks a significant step toward strengthening cross-border trade, improving border management systems, and enhancing the efficiency of the Tunduma–Nakonde One Stop Border Post (OSBP). He added that the measures would further promote trade, investment, value addition, and the smooth movement of people, cargo, and services across the border.
Trade volumes between Tanzania and Zambia have continued to grow steadily, with bilateral trade increasing from USD 312 million in 2024 to USD 349 million in 2025, representing an 11 percent increase.
The Tanzanian delegation to the meeting included the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Hon. James Millya; the Deputy Minister for Finance, Hon. Mshamu Ali Munde; the Deputy Minister for Transport, Hon. David Kihenzile; and other senior government officials led by Deputy Minister Denis Londo.
Tanzania has reaffirmed its commitment to regional energy integration by participating in the 21st Council of Ministers meeting of the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP).
The high-level meeting, held on April 29, 2026, in Cairo, brought together energy ministers from 13 member states to strengthen cooperation and advance the development of a unified regional electricity market.
Tanzania was represented by the Deputy Minister for Energy, Salome Makamba, who joined counterparts in deliberating key policy and operational frameworks.
A major outcome of the meeting was the designation of Egypt as the permanent host of the regional electricity market operations center, a critical step toward establishing a fully functional and integrated power market across Eastern Africa.
The session was chaired by Mahmoud Esmat, who emphasized the importance of unity, transparency, and collaboration among member states in achieving a sustainable and efficient regional energy system.
The Council also approved a two-month extension for member states to finalize ratification of cooperation agreements between governments and national electricity utilities, ensuring smoother implementation of the regional power framework.
In addition, Ethiopia was endorsed to assume the rotating chairmanship of the Council, in line with EAPP governance principles.
Commenting on the outcomes, Hon. Makamba described the resolutions as a significant milestone in transforming cross-border electricity trade and strengthening the regional energy market.
She was accompanied by Richard Makanzo, Styden Rwebangila, Anthony Mbushi, as well as experts from the Ministry of Energy, TANESCO, and EWURA.
The meeting marks a critical step toward enhancing electricity trade, strengthening regional cooperation, and promoting sustainable energy development across Eastern Africa.
Tanzania’s Ministry of Energy has announced plans to implement a clean and efficient energy project in Mtumba Government City in Dodoma, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The initiative will begin with the Ministry’s headquarters building before expanding to cover the entire government city, positioning Mtumba as a model for sustainable energy use in Tanzania.
Speaking during a project planning meeting on April 1, 2026, Commissioner for Electricity and Renewable Energy, Engineer Innocent Luoga, said the project will integrate small-scale renewable energy systems, including solar and wind power, alongside energy-efficient infrastructure.
The project also includes the installation of electric vehicle charging stations within the ministry’s premises and parking areas, supporting Tanzania’s transition toward cleaner transport solutions.
“We are starting with the Ministry building because we are responsible for overseeing the energy sector, and we want to set an example for both public and private institutions,” Luoga said, adding that the initiative will help reduce electricity costs while ensuring reliable and sustainable power supply.
UNDP Project Manager Aaron Cunningham reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting the project, noting its long-standing collaboration with the Ministry on impactful initiatives that benefit communities and national development.
The project is expected to significantly improve energy efficiency across government institutions while advancing Tanzania’s broader sustainability and climate goals.
It builds on ongoing efforts under a 10-year national energy efficiency strategy launched in December 2024.
Korogwe, Tanga Region — Tanzania is advancing its clean cooking energy transition as the Rural Energy Agency (REA) continues the rollout of a subsidized LPG cylinder programme in Korogwe District.
The initiative, which distributes six-kilogram gas cylinders at subsidized prices, is aimed at promoting the adoption of clean, safe, and environmentally friendly cooking solutions, while reducing dependence on firewood and charcoal.
As the programme expands, more low-income households are gaining access to affordable LPG, marking a significant shift toward modern energy use and improved living standards.
According to REA Project Supervisor Abdulrazack Mkomi, the initiative forms part of the Government’s broader strategy to address environmental degradation and health risks associated with traditional biomass fuels.
He emphasized that under the leadership of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, the Government remains committed to ensuring universal access to clean cooking energy as a key driver of public health, environmental protection, and economic development.
Beneficiaries of the programme have reported notable improvements, including reduced cooking time, lower energy costs, and decreased exposure to harmful indoor smoke.
In addition to distribution, REA is providing public awareness and safety training on LPG usage, including proper handling, storage, and accident prevention.
The initiative in Korogwe is seen as a critical step toward Tanzania’s broader goal of achieving sustainable energy access, while enhancing livelihoods and protecting natural resources for future generations.
Geita, Tanzania | 15 March 2026 — A strategic TZS 50 billion investment in the Mpomvu Power Receiving and Cooling Substation in Geita Region is significantly strengthening electricity supply across Tanzania’s Lake Zone, supporting growing household demand and expanding economic activities, particularly in the mining sector.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy and Minerals conducted an inspection visit to the facility on 15 March 2026 as part of its oversight mandate to monitor the implementation of key national energy projects aimed at improving reliable electricity access across the country.
Parliamentary Oversight and Infrastructure Progress
Speaking during the visit, Committee Chairperson Hon. Subira Mgalu stated that the inspection aimed to assess the progress of energy infrastructure projects and ensure that government investments are delivering tangible benefits to citizens.
“As the Parliamentary Committee on Energy and Minerals, we are responsible for overseeing the Ministry of Energy to ensure it fulfills its mandate effectively. We are satisfied with the investment made at this station, which plays a critical role in ensuring reliable electricity supply for citizens and economic activities,” she said.
The Mpomvu Substation has the capacity to receive and distribute approximately 90 megawatts of electricity, significantly enhancing energy reliability in the region. Authorities are also planning further upgrades to the transmission network, including a dedicated power line for the Geita Gold Mine (GGM).
Hon. Mgalu noted that electricity demand at the Geita Gold Mine is projected to rise from 36 megawatts currently to approximately 70 megawatts by 2035, underscoring the importance of strengthening power infrastructure to support industrial growth.
Expanding Energy Access Across Regions
Deputy Minister for Energy Hon. Salome Makamba emphasized that the Government continues to invest in energy infrastructure in Geita Region due to rapid growth in economic and social activities, especially in the mining sector.
“This substation plays a vital role in strengthening electricity supply not only in Geita Region but also in neighboring areas including Biharamulo and Ngara in Kagera Region, Sengerema in Mwanza Region, and Kakonko in Kigoma Region,” she explained.
She added that the project has significantly expanded electricity distribution capacity in the region, where current demand has reached 73.64 megawatts.
Previously, Geita relied on electricity supplied from Shinyanga Region, with a capacity of only 4 megawatts, which was insufficient to meet the rapidly increasing demand driven by mining and other economic activities.
The completion of the Mpomvu Substation marks a major milestone in strengthening Tanzania’s energy infrastructure, supporting industrial development, and improving living standards across the Lake Zone.
KARATU, Tanzania — The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Lands, Natural Resources and Tourism has praised the Sixth Phase Government under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for the construction of the Ngorongoro–Lengai Geopark Heritage Museum located in Karatu District, Arusha Region.
During an inspection visit, the committee said the museum should be promoted as a new tourism product that will help increase the number of days international visitors spend exploring Tanzania’s tourism attractions.
The remarks were made by the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee, Hon. Timotheo Mnzava (MP) after members visited and inspected the modern museum facility, which was constructed through cooperation between the Government of Tanzania and the People’s Republic of China.
Speaking after the inspection, Hon. Mnzava thanked President Samia Suluhu Hassan for facilitating the construction of the museum, which cost approximately Tanzania Shillings 20 billion, noting that the project represents a major milestone in strengthening heritage and educational tourism in the country.
He said the museum will not only serve as a new tourism attraction but will also play a critical role in preserving the rich history of human origins and the geological heritage of the Ngorongoro area, one of the world’s most important landscapes for the study of early human evolution.
The committee also expressed satisfaction with the quality of the construction, emphasizing that the project clearly demonstrates value for money in public investment.
Lawmakers further directed the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism to ensure the museum is fully integrated into Tanzania’s tourism promotion strategies and marketed both locally and internationally to attract more visitors.
Meanwhile, Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Ashatu Kijaji (MP) thanked the parliamentary committee for the visit and pledged that the ministry would carefully implement the recommendations provided by members.
The inspection visit was also attended by Karatu District Commissioner Dr. Lameck Karanga, Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism Nkoba Mabula, members of the ministry’s management team, and experts from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA).
The Ngorongoro–Lengai Geopark Museum showcases the region’s geological heritage, the story of human origins, and the cultural traditions of communities living within the geopark landscape, positioning it as a major educational and tourism hub in Tanzania.
SHINYANGA, Tanzania — The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy and Minerals has commended the Ministry of Energy for its continued efforts to expand electricity generation through a diversified energy mix, including the 50-megawatt solar power project in Kishapu District, Shinyanga Region.
The praise was delivered on March 13, 2026 by the Committee Chairperson, Hon. Subira Mgalu, after lawmakers visited and inspected the project, which has already begun feeding electricity into the National Grid.
Hon. Mgalu said the project reflects the significant transformation underway in Tanzania’s energy sector, particularly in expanding electricity generation through renewable energy sources such as solar power.
“This project has already added 50 megawatts to the National Grid, demonstrating the government’s commitment to an energy mix rather than relying on a single source of electricity generation. Currently, we have hydropower, natural gas, and we are now expanding other sources such as solar,” she said.
She noted that diversifying energy sources strengthens power supply reliability, especially as unpredictable weather patterns increasingly affect water levels in hydropower reservoirs.
Hon. Mgalu further stated that the committee was satisfied with the utilization of funds allocated for the project, noting that the 50 megawatts generated are already contributing to the country’s overall electricity generation capacity.
The committee also urged the Ministry of Energy, through the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO), to continue implementing the vision of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan to increase national electricity generation capacity to 8,000 megawatts by 2030.
Earlier, Minister for Energy Hon. Deogratius Ndejembi said the government is continuing to implement multiple electricity generation projects using different energy sources, including the Kishapu solar power project, which began construction in 2023.
He explained that the project uses Solar Photovoltaic (PV) technology and is being implemented in two phases, with the first phase already completed and contributing 50 megawatts to the National Grid.
