Mkuranga residents set to benefit from Mafia electricity project

DAR ES SALAAM: Residents of Mkuranga District in Coast Region are expected to benefit from the construction of a 33-kilovolt electricity transmission line linking the district to Mafia Island through a special underwater cable.

The project is expected to improve electricity supply, stimulate economic activities and create employment opportunities for residents, particularly during its implementation.

Speaking during a public awareness seminar on the project, Mkuranga District Administrative Secretary Omary Said said the initiative would strengthen electricity services and accelerate socio-economic development in the district.

He commended the government, through Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO), for continuing to expand electricity infrastructure, saying the project would open up more opportunities for economic activities, especially in areas with limited access to reliable power.

“We commend TANESCO for continuing to expand electricity services. We believe this project will bring development to residents by increasing economic activities and improving community welfare,” he said.

Mr Said assured TANESCO of the district’s continued cooperation to ensure the project is implemented smoothly, meets the required quality standards and is completed successfully for the benefit of the people.

Speaking on behalf of the project coordinator, Engineer Joffrey Katoto said TANESCO was implementing a major electricity transmission project connecting Zanzibar and Mafia Island, with a total investment of 283 million US dollars.

He said the project comprised three major components, including a 33kV transmission line from Mkuranga to Mafia, a 132kV line from Tanga to Pemba and a 220kV transmission line from Ununio to Unguja.

The infrastructure is expected to strengthen electricity connectivity and improve power supply across the targeted areas.

Some residents and village leaders from areas earmarked for the project said the seminar had helped them understand the proposed transmission route, areas likely to be affected and procedures for addressing challenges that may arise during implementation.

They said the information would enable communities to prepare for the project and cooperate with relevant authorities to minimise potential disruptions.

The seminar forms part of preparations for the project, aimed at strengthening cooperation between TANESCO, government leaders and local communities.

It also seeks to equip local leaders with the necessary information and capacity to promptly address disputes and other challenges that may emerge during the implementation of the project.