Call for local government leaders to protect electricity infrastructure

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner, Albert Chalamila, has urged the local government chairpersons to actively participate in promoting and protecting electricity infrastructure within their communities for the benefit of the nation.

Speaking today at a working session organized by the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) in collaboration with local leaders from the Ubungo and Kinondoni Municipal Councils, Chalamila emphasized that the region hosts significant electricity projects which must be safeguarded with integrity and patriotism.

“Electricity means jobs, it means life, and it is also a key source of national income. We must be patriotic in protecting this infrastructure—not just for personal gain but for the development of our country,” Chalamila stressed.

He highlighted the critical role of local chairpersons as grassroots leaders directly engaged with citizens. He noted their responsibility in ensuring security, peace, and stability within their areas

“National peace is built on community stability, and this is also sustained through access to essential services like electricity. Its absence disrupts people’s lives and hinders development,” he added.

In another development, Chalamila has called on the chairpersons to actively share the achievements of the Sixth Phase Government, led by President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, so that citizens are well-informed about the development efforts underway.

TANESCO’s Managing Director, Lazaro Twange, announced that the company is shifting its approach by reaching out directly to communities to connect them with electricity services, rather than waiting for customers to come to their offices.

“At the recent international energy conference held in Russia, Tanzania was advised to connect electricity to 1.7 million people annually. Currently, we are reaching around 500,000 to 600,000 people per year. To meet this target, we must go to where the people are,” said Twange.

In addition, Twange urged the local chairpersons to become ambassadors for clean cooking energy by educating citizens on its benefits for health and the environment.

“You are the leaders in your neighborhoods. We ask for your support in raising awareness about the use of clean cooking energy. It not only protects the environment but is also economically affordable,” he explained.

ALSO READ: TANESCO orders customers to settle electricity bills promptly

As a demonstration of commitment to this campaign, Twange presented an energy-efficient electric stove to the Regional Commissioner and several local leaders. This gesture was part of the ongoing efforts to support President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan’s push for clean energy adoption in Tanzanian households.

On his part, the  Ubungo District Commissioner, Albert Msando, pledged full cooperation with the chairpersons to ensure both government and party directives are implemented in a timely manner. He also committed to closely addressing challenges and complaints related to TANESCO services.