The Rukwa region in Tanzania is expected to be connected to the national grid for the first time with the completion of the TAZA project, a 400-kilovolt power transmission line from Iringa to Sumbawanga. The project, which is 96.57% complete, is expected to improve the reliability of electricity supply in the region, boosting economic development, investment, and social services. The project is being implemented by the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) at a cost of approximately TSH 2 trillion.
The TAZA project, which spans 616 kilometers, is a strategic initiative that will increase the capacity of the national grid to transmit power, reducing challenges in accessing electricity in the southwestern part of Tanzania. The project is also expected to create a favorable investment climate in industries, mining, trade, and agriculture. Once completed, the project will enable the Rukwa region to access reliable and efficient electricity, improving the quality of life for its residents.
The completion of the TAZA project is expected to have a positive impact on the region's healthcare, education, and social services, which rely heavily on electricity. The project will also boost economic activities and job creation through investment in sectors that depend on reliable energy. According to TANESCO's Managing Director, Lazaro Twange, the project is critical to the region's development, and the company is working to ensure its completion by November 15, 2026.
The TAZA project is also significant regionally, as it will complete the preparations for connecting the electricity systems of Tanzania and Zambia, enabling power trade between the two countries and strengthening economic cooperation within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The project has faced challenges, including the transportation of large equipment, but TANESCO is working with the Tanzania Roads Agency (TANROADS) to ensure the safe delivery of materials to the project site.
The delay in completing the project, which was initially expected to be finished in May 2026, has been attributed to logistical challenges. However, TANESCO is working to ensure that the project is completed within the revised timeline. The company's Managing Director has urged contractors to ensure the project is completed on time, so that residents can start benefiting from the reliable electricity supply.
The TAZA project is part of the Tanzanian government's efforts to improve access to reliable electricity and stimulate national economic growth. The project will increase the region's access to electricity, improving the quality of life for residents and creating new opportunities for economic development. The project's completion is expected to have a positive impact on the region's economic and social development.
Once completed, the TAZA project will provide reliable electricity to the Rukwa region, improving the region's economic prospects and quality of life. The project is a significant investment in the region's infrastructure and is expected to have a lasting impact on the region's development. The project's success will also pave the way for future investments in the region's energy sector.
Key points
- The TAZA project will improve access to reliable electricity in the Rukwa region, boosting economic development and social services.
- The project will increase the capacity of the national grid to transmit power, reducing challenges in accessing electricity in the southwestern part of Tanzania.
- The project's completion will enable power trade between Tanzania and Zambia, strengthening economic cooperation within the SADC region.
