Five regions see benefits of TAZA power interconnection as it nears completion

MBEYA: THE Tanzania–Zambia (TAZA) power interconnection project has reached 76 per cent completion and is expected to significantly improve electricity supply in several regions while strengthening cross-border energy trade once completed.

Minister for Energy Deogratius Ndejembi said the project will enhance power reliability in Iringa, Njombe, Mbeya, and Songwe regions, while also enabling Rukwa Region to be formally connected to the National Grid.

Speaking during the inspection of the Iganjo power substation in Uyole, which forms part of the project’s implementation, the minister said that the project involves the construction of a 400-kilovolt high-voltage transmission line from Iringa through Kisada, Mbeya and Tunduma to Sumbawanga, before linking Tanzania’s electricity grid with Zambia at the Nakonde border point.

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Additionally, he said that the project will increase power transmission capacity to 1,700 megawatts, opening opportunities for electricity trade between Tanzania and countries within the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community.

“This project is also expected to create employment opportunities, attract industrial investment and stimulate economic activities in areas along the transmission corridor,” he stated.

Moreover, he directed the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) to ensure the strategic project is completed successfully so that the country can fully benefit from the regional electricity market.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Electricity and Renewable Energy at the Ministry of Energy, Innocent Luoga, said construction of the transmission line has reached 92.87 per cent, while development of substations stands at 60.57 per cent.