Power Grid

The Tanzanian government is optimistic about achieving its goal of providing electricity to all villages across the country by the end of this year. With 12,278 villages, or 99.7 percent, already connected to power, the government is making significant strides in rural electrification. At a seminar for editors and journalists, Mr. Gerson Msigwa, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, emphasized the success of the rural electrification efforts, noting that 32,827 hamlets out of 64,359 have been connected to electricity, representing 51 percent of the total.

This electrification push has had a profound impact on various sectors, including education, healthcare, business, and transportation. Over 12,905 educational and healthcare institutions are now connected to electricity, leading to improved service delivery in these vital areas. The increased availability of power is helping citizens fully engage in economic activities, contributing to Tanzania's overall development. Additionally, investments in alternative energy sources, such as solar, geothermal, and wind power, are expected to increase electricity production by 1,100 megawatts, further boosting the nation's energy capacity.

The government has also focused on local production of energy-related equipment, which is helping reduce the cost of energy distribution projects. The number of factories producing energy equipment, including poles and cables, has risen dramatically from 23 in 2020 to 78 in 2024. This growth in domestic manufacturing has created employment opportunities for Tanzanians while contributing to the nation's energy independence. The government's commitment to clean cooking energy, spearheaded by President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, aims for 80 percent of households to use clean cooking energy by 2034, which is a key priority under the National Clean Cooking Energy Strategy.

Electricity access is a cornerstone of Tanzania's economic and social development. With major projects like the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project, the country has significantly boosted its electricity production, generating 1,410 megawatts from six turbines. As the electrification efforts continue, more citizens and entrepreneurs will be able to contribute to the national economy, raising the standard of living for all Tanzanians. According to the Rural Energy Agency, 69.6 percent of rural citizens had access to electricity by 2020, and the government's continued efforts are expected to further expand access, with a report on electricity access due in March 2025.