Dr Samia switches on JNHPP plant, a landmark energy project to bolster Tanzania’s power security
UTETE: PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan has today, August 22, 2026, launched the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Plant (JNHPP), a landmark energy project expected to strengthen Tanzania’s power security, drive investment and support economic growth.
The project worth 7.452tri/- fully financed through domestic government funds has a generation capacity of 2,115 megawatts from nine turbines, each capable of producing 235MW.
Construction of the project began in June 2019 and was completed in March 2025.
According to the Ministry of Energy, by May 31, 2026, JNHPP was already contributing half of all electricity generated and fed into Tanzania’s national grid.
Moreover, the plant is also expected to strengthen Tanzania’s energy security and reduce the power shortages that previously triggered electricity rationing during periods of constrained generation.
Beyond its scale, the project carries another significant milestone: despite relying on advanced technology, the plant is being operated 100 per cent by Tanzanians.
The project is also expected to complement the government’s broader drive to ensure a stable power supply while positioning Tanzania as a more competitive destination for investment and a key economic player in the East African region.
