Electric cheers as govt compensates Songea locals

RUVUMA: YES! The government, through the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) in Ruvuma Region, has begun paying compensation to residents whose land was acquired for the construction of the 220KV Imara Msongo National Grid Project running from Songea to Tunduru.

On May 28, 2025, the process commenced, with more than 200 residents benefiting from the payout.

Here, the compensation targets residents of Mlete Street in the Shule ya Tanga Ward of Songea Municipality, whose land was required to facilitate the implementation of this vital project.

This ambitious initiative aims to ensure reliable electricity supply through the National Grid, thereby energising economic activities within the region, increasing individual incomes and contributing to the overall growth of the nation.

Officials from TANESCO’s Ruvuma office, accompanied by media representatives, visited the Mlete area, where the compensation payout and the opening of bank accounts for beneficiaries took place.

The total sum of 2.5bn/-was disbursed to residents who willingly handed over their land, a clear sign of the government’s commitment to boosting economic activities through electrification.

Speaking before the compensation ceremony, TANESCO’s Ruvuma Customer Relations Officer, Mr Alan Njiro, urged residents not to return to the compensated land and hinder the progress of the grid project.

He emphasised that the project would make Songea and Tunduru shine even brighter on the national electricity grid, sparking development in communities where power is now being introduced.

“The electricity infrastructure has already reached Mlete residents. It is every citizen’s duty to protect these power installations. Anyone found sabotaging TANESCO’s facilities will be held accountable,” Njiro cautioned.

He added that residents should use the free hotline number 180 to report emergencies, inquiries, or any suspicious activities such as theft of electrical cables or transformer components.

Several TANESCO staff members from the headquarters, including the chief accountant Ms Phlasida Lalika, advised beneficiaries to utilise the compensation money wisely.

“When you receive this money, invest it in business activities. Women, especially, should take advantage of electricity to start different enterprises maybe ice production or other profitable ventures,” Ms Lalika encouraged.

Another TANESCO official, Winifrida Masuka, stressed the importance of ensuring that the beneficiaries’ rights are respected.

“We have come to make sure you get paid. We thank the government and TANESCO for making these payments swiftly. After receiving your compensation, go and find alternative land to settle. Don’t revert to the old land,” she urged.

On their part, the compensated residents expressed gratitude to TANESCO and the government under President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan.

One beneficiary, Mr Ado, said, “The compensation came at the right time. I plan to use half the money to pay my children’s school fees and the rest will be invested in purchasing five acres of land where I intend to build and farm. I will also set aside some funds to continue paying school fees.”

Other residents stated that they would invest the money in various businesses to generate income. Dismas Komba, the Songea Urban East Ward Officer, began by thanking the government of Tanzania, led by Dr Samia, for bringing development to the people.

He explained that the land valuation process began in May 2023. His office, together with the Songea District Commissioner’s office, has been advising residents to invest the compensation money in housing, construction and farming.

“We still have plenty of land available in this ward and district,” Komba said, “so please invest the money in productive economic activities. Don’t waste it on frivolous things that won’t improve your livelihood.”

Komba also praised President Samia for her remarkable work in opening up the southern region, particularly the Ruvuma Region, by connecting it to the national electricity grid.

He highlighted that the main economic activities in the region include agriculture and mining.

“Bringing electricity here will attract more investors who can establish large industries, create jobs and contribute to the country’s GDP,” he explained.

Why this matters

This compensation effort reflects a critical milestone in Tanzania’s journey to electrify rural and semi-urban areas, unlocking socio-economic benefits that reach far beyond simply having power. Reliable electricity means better schools, improved healthcare facilities and more vibrant businesses.

For a region like Ruvuma, where agriculture and mining are the backbone of the economy, power access can transform local productivity. Investors and local entrepreneurs alike are keen to capitalise on this opportunity.

The compensation payouts not only acknowledge the sacrifices of the residents but also serve as a seed fund to spur economic ventures powered by electricity.

For example, access to power enables refrigeration, light manufacturing and digital services activities that were previously hampered by lack of infrastructure.

The government’s approach fairly compensating landowners while ensuring the timely rollout of national infrastructure demonstrates a balance between development needs and community rights.

It also highlights a strong commitment to transparency and collaboration, essential for successful large-scale projects.

A word of caution and hope However, alongside the celebration of these gains, there is a cautionary message from officials like Mr Njiro: safeguarding the new infrastructure is everyone’s responsibility. Electricity theft, vandalism, or careless behaviour can undermine the hard-earned progress and delay benefits for all.

Citizens are thus encouraged to be vigilant and proactive, reporting any sabotage or theft to TANESCO to protect this precious resource.

Moreover, the call to invest compensation funds wisely aligns with a broader national push toward economic empowerment and sustainable development.

Residents’ testimonials show genuine optimism. From paying school fees to acquiring new land for farming and housing, the money is already making a tangible difference.

This reflects a hopeful future where infrastructure and opportunity work hand in hand to elevate living standards in Ruvuma.

The electrification of Songea to Tunduru is just one link in Tanzania’s wider national grid expansion plans.

Projects like this are crucial to achieving President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision of a modern, industrialised Tanzania where reliable electricity is the backbone of economic growth and improved quality of life.

By empowering communities with both infrastructure and resources, the government fosters an environment where development is inclusive and far-reaching.

As more villages and towns come online, the ripple effects will boost not only local economies but also strengthen Tanzania’s position as a competitive player in regional and global markets.