The President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, participating in the Nuclear Energy Innovation Summit for Africa (NEISA) in Kigali on May 19, 2026.
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 Deputy Minister for Energy, Salome Makamba, has visited the Tanzania Embassy in Egypt as part of her official trip to participate in a key regional energy summit.
During the visit, she was received by Tanzania’s Ambassador to Egypt, Richard Makanzo, who briefed her on the embassy’s roles and ongoing initiatives to promote bilateral cooperation.
Ambassador Makanzo highlighted opportunities across various sectors, including health, agriculture, electricity, transport, and trade, emphasizing that cooperation between Tanzania and Egypt aims to deliver mutual economic and social benefits while strengthening diplomatic ties.
Hon. Makamba commended the embassy for its efforts in advancing Tanzania’s international relations, noting its role in fostering partnerships not only with Egypt but also with other diplomatic missions.
She is in Egypt to attend the East African Power Pool meeting scheduled for April 29, 2026, in Cairo.
The meeting will bring together member states to discuss key energy priorities, including the interconnection of national power grids and cross-border electricity trade—critical steps toward enhancing regional energy security and efficiency.
The summit is preceded by technical sessions involving energy experts from member countries, aimed at laying a strong foundation for policy-level discussions among leaders.
Tanzania’s Minister for Energy, Deogratius Ndejembi, has convened a high-level meeting with institutions under the Ministry responsible for petroleum operations to assess fuel availability and pricing trends.
The meeting, held on April 7, 2026, in Dodoma, aimed to review a report prepared for the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy and Minerals regarding the current state of fuel supply and price increases across the country.
The engagement follows a directive issued by the Speaker of Parliament, Mussa Zungu, on April 1, 2026, instructing the Ministry to consult with the parliamentary committee to address concerns over rising fuel prices.
The session brought together key stakeholders, including Deputy Minister for Energy Salome Makamba, Permanent Secretary for Petroleum and Gas James Mataragio, ministry experts, and heads of petroleum and gas institutions.
The outcome of the meeting is expected to inform discussions at the parliamentary committee scheduled for April 8, 2026, as the government seeks to respond to growing concerns over fuel price trends and ensure stability in the energy sector.
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.
Washington, D.C., March 21, 2026 — Tanzania is stepping up efforts to harness its vast natural gas reserves, now confirmed at 57.54 trillion cubic feet, in a move expected to significantly transform the country’s economic trajectory.
Speaking at the Powering Africa Summit in Washington, D.C., Deputy Minister for Energy Hon. Salome Makamba said the discovery positions Tanzania among Africa’s most promising destinations for energy investment.
She noted that nearly 70 percent of potential oil and gas areas remain unexplored, presenting substantial opportunities for investors in exploration and upstream development.
The government is preparing to launch a new licensing round for oil and gas blocks, aimed at attracting fresh investment and boosting production capacity.
Tanzania is also advancing plans for major projects, including the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) project, which is expected to unlock access to international markets and increase national revenues.
In parallel, the government is prioritizing domestic utilization of natural gas for electricity generation, industrial use, households, and transport, alongside investment in key infrastructure such as pipelines, gas distribution systems, and refilling stations.
Officials say the expanded use of natural gas will help lower industrial production costs and support environmental sustainability by reducing reliance on traditional fuels such as charcoal and firewood.
The initiative is expected to drive job creation, economic growth, and long-term energy security, reinforcing Tanzania’s position in the global energy landscape.
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania | 16 March 2026 — Tanzania and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation in the energy sector following high-level discussions between the Minister for Energy, Hon. Deogratius Ndejembi, and the Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Tanzania, H.E. Yahya Ahmed Okeish.
The meeting took place at the Energy Ministry’s Sub-Office in Dar es Salaam, focusing on expanding strategic partnerships that support sustainable energy development and strengthen long-term bilateral relations.
During the talks, the two leaders explored opportunities for collaboration across several priority areas of the energy sector. Key issues included oil supply security, natural gas development, clean cooking energy initiatives, renewable energy expansion, and technical capacity building for energy professionals.
The discussions also emphasized the importance of knowledge exchange, advanced oil and gas exploration technologies, and professional training programmes aimed at enhancing Tanzania’s energy capabilities while supporting broader sector growth.
The engagement reflects Tanzania’s broader strategy to strengthen international energy partnerships, diversify energy sources, and accelerate progress toward sustainable and reliable energy systems.
Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing cooperation that supports energy security, investment opportunities, and technological exchange for the mutual benefit of Tanzania and Saudi Arabia.
Pwani, February 26, 2026 – The Steering Committee of the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP) has commended the progress and successful implementation of the Julius Nyerere Dam, describing it as a high-quality project delivering value for money and driving national development.
During an inspection of power generation activities at the dam on February 26, 2026, the Committee expressed satisfaction with the project’s management and execution, noting that it meets high construction standards comparable to major projects across Africa.
Chairperson of the Committee, Dr. Jim Yonazi—who also serves as Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament, Coordination and Persons with Disabilities)—said the project has significantly stimulated economic growth by boosting electricity production and improving energy access nationwide.
“We are satisfied with the efficiency and professionalism demonstrated in implementing this project. Compared to similar projects across Africa, this dam stands out in quality and has greatly improved electricity services in the country. This is a major national achievement,” Dr. Yonazi stated.
Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Director of Policy and Planning Mr. Petro Lyatuu confirmed that the project is 100 percent complete and its impact is already visible.
He noted that in 2021, Tanzania’s national grid had a generation capacity of 1,600 megawatts. Currently, power generation capacity has exceeded 4,000 megawatts—more than double the previous level.
“The dam is now generating electricity, and its benefits are clear. Increased production has strengthened the national grid, and we continue investing in the energy sector to support national development and citizens’ welfare,” Mr. Lyatuu emphasized.
On February 25, 2026, the Committee also visited the Chalinze power receiving and substation facility, which transmits electricity from the Julius Nyerere Dam to various parts of the country.
Representing TANESCO’s Managing Director, Deputy Managing Director for Generation, Eng. Antony Mbushi, confirmed that the Chalinze station is complete and operational.
He added that construction of the transmission line from Chalinze to Dodoma has reached 71.58 percent completion, while the Chalinze–Kinyerezi–Mkuranga transmission project stands at 59.76 percent completion.
The Committee concluded that strategic energy projects like JNHPP are positioning Tanzania as a key investment destination and a regional power distribution hub for East, Central, and Southern Africa.
Dar es Salaam | 20 February 2026 — Tanzania’s Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy and Minerals has expressed satisfaction with the country’s electricity generation capacity, noting that total installed production has reached 4,400 megawatts (MW), significantly surpassing current national demand of 2,071 MW.
The remarks followed an oversight visit by the Committee to key energy infrastructure projects in Dar es Salaam, including the Ras Kilomoni Power Transmission Station to Zanzibar and the Kinyerezi I and II Natural Gas Power Plants.
Chairperson of the Committee, Hon. Subira Mgalu, praised the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) for its effective implementation of strategic energy projects and for steering the utility toward financial sustainability.
“We commend TANESCO for the successful execution of power projects. Incidents of power outages have significantly declined, and there is currently no load shedding. The next priority should be ensuring electricity reaches the end consumer, particularly in industrial and mining zones,” Hon. Mgalu stated.
The Committee further acknowledged ongoing efforts to strengthen transmission infrastructure, including the expansion of high-voltage lines from the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project to Chalinze, and onward from Kinyerezi to Mkuranga, an area with a high concentration of industrial activity.
Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, the Commissioner for Electricity and Renewable Energy, Eng. Innocent Luoga, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to meeting the national target of 8,000 MW of electricity generation by 2030, in line with the vision of President H.E. Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
He noted that electricity demand continues to grow, particularly in productive sectors, and that the Government—through TANESCO—is working to connect approximately 1.7 million new customers annually to expand access and support economic transformation.
During the visit, the Committee also toured the Ras Kilomoni Transmission Station, which has the capacity to transmit 205 MW of electricity to Zanzibar. According to 2025 data, Zanzibar’s peak demand stood at 140.4 MW, reflecting adequate supply margins.
The Committee’s findings highlight Tanzania’s continued progress in energy security, infrastructure expansion, and industrialization-driven power sector growth.
Dar es Salaam — Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba has directed the Ministry of Energy to accelerate the expansion of Tanzania’s natural gas distribution network, citing its critical role in driving industrial growth, transport efficiency, and power generation.
Speaking on 9 February 2026 during the inauguration of Puma Energies’ Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Mother Station in Salasala, Dar es Salaam, Dr. Nchemba said wider access to natural gas would help citizens lower fuel and energy costs while reducing the country’s reliance on imported petroleum products and foreign exchange expenditure.
The construction of the CNG Mother Station cost approximately TZS 13 billion.
“The Ministry of Energy should continue to speed up the development and availability of natural gas so that it becomes a common energy source in the daily lives of Tanzanians,” Dr. Nchemba said. “I also call upon all Tanzanians to seize the opportunity presented by the availability of compressed natural gas.”
Natural Gas Central to National Development Vision
Dr. Nchemba said the project reflects the implementation of the National Energy Policy and aligns with Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050, as well as the development priorities of the Sixth Phase Government under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
He emphasized that natural gas is a key catalyst for industrialisation, transport transformation, and electricity generation, and a cornerstone of Tanzania’s transition toward clean, safe, affordable, and reliable energy.
“The launch of this project marks a significant milestone in our national strategy to promote clean energy for sustainable economic and social development,” he said.
Government Strengthens Private Sector Partnerships
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to improving the investment climate, including maintaining stable policies, strengthening investor-friendly regulatory systems, ensuring transparency in decision-making, and enhancing cooperation between public institutions and the private sector.
“The Government values the contribution of the private sector in implementing development projects and delivering public services,” he said, adding that collaboration with private investors in the construction of CNG facilities will continue.
Clean Cooking and Transport Gains
Dr. Nchemba also highlighted progress in the clean energy transition, noting that within the first 100 days of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration, the Government facilitated the distribution of 13,575 improved cookstoves subsidised at 85 percent, and 28,653 six-kilogram LPG cylinders subsidised at 50 percent.
In addition, 89 institutions serving more than 100 people daily transitioned to clean cooking energy, bringing the total number of such institutions nationwide to 1,136.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister for Energy Ms. Salome Makamba said the transport sector is among the fastest-growing users of natural gas, with over 15,000 vehicles currently operating on CNG across the country.
As of January 2026, Tanzania had 11 CNG refuelling stations—nine in Dar es Salaam, one in the Coast Region, and one in Mtwara.
She said the Government, in partnership with the private sector, plans to increase the number of CNG stations to 20 by June 2026, particularly in Morogoro and Dodoma, to expand access in major cities and along key transport corridors.
The Minister for Energy, Hon. Deogratius Ndejembi, on 26 January 2026 held a working meeting with the Advisory Board of the Bulk Procurement Petroleum Agency (PBPA) to discuss strategies aimed at strengthening and further improving the agency’s performance.
The meeting was convened at the Ministry of Energy offices in Mtumba Government City, Dodoma, and focused on enhancing operational efficiency, governance, and service delivery within the Agency.
The session was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Mr. Felchesm Mramba, the Chairperson of the PBPA Advisory Board, Dr. Lutengano Mwakahesya, and the PBPA Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Erasto Simon. Board Members and technical experts from the Ministry of Energy also participated in the discussions.
The engagement underscores the Government’s continued commitment to strengthening institutional performance in the petroleum sector to ensure reliable supply, efficiency, and value for the national economy.
