Biteko signs a project to end power imports from Uganda

DODOMA: THE Tanzanian government has successfully fulfilled its promise to extend national grid electricity to all districts in the Kagera Region after signing contracts for the construction of a 220-kilovolt electricity transmission line from Benako, Ngara, to Kyaka in Misenyi District, along with a 220/33-kilovolt Benako substation. This development guarantees that Kagera Region will now receive national grid electricity instead of relying heavily on power imports from Uganda.

Speaking in Dodoma after witnessing the signing of the contracts, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, stated that the commencement of this project is part of the directives from President Samia Suluhu Hassan. He emphasized the President’s commitment to ensuring a reliable electricity supply for the people of Kagera, enabling them to conduct their economic and social activities effectively.

“Through this project, for the first time, Kagera Region will be connected directly to the national grid, significantly improving electricity reliability especially in the districts of Bukoba, Muleba, Misenyi, Karagwe, Kyerwa, and other neighboring areas. I assure the people of Kagera that the government is determined to complete this project on time within 24 months,” said Dr. Biteko.

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Furthermore, Dr. Biteko added that while Kagera’s current electricity demand does not exceed 47 megawatts, the region will gain a more reliable electricity supply after this project. Multiple transmission routes will be established in the region, including Benako-Karagwe to Kyaka, Nyakanazi-Biharamulo to Muleba, and another major 400-kilovolt line planned from Ibadakuli to Mbarara in Uganda. Additionally, the 87-megawatt Kakono power generation project is in its final stages of contractor procurement.

In another development, Dr. Biteko directed the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) to ensure that the 1,014 affected residents along the project route receive their compensation as soon as possible, starting from September this year.