The Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango
By Correspondent
Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango
has commended the Ministry of Energy for its robust oversight of various energy
sector projects, particularly electricity projects, which are crucial in
bolstering the country's economic strength.
Dr. Mpango extended his
accolades today, July 8, 2024, during an inspection of the construction
progress of the 132-kilovolt (kV) power transmission line stretching 395
kilometers from Tabora to Kigoma. The inspection also covered the construction
of the Nguruka and Kidahwe substations in Kigoma.
At the Nguruka substation, which
is 95% complete, Dr. Mpango directed the Ministry of Energy, through Tanesco,
to ensure that Kigoma is connected to the national power grid by September this
year. This connection is expected to resolve the region’s electricity access
challenges, which have hindered investment activities.
"I commend the Deputy Prime
Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, for his excellent management
of this sector. I also congratulate Tanesco for their commendable work. It is
now crucial to ensure that Kigoma is integrated into the national grid to
unlock the region's economic potential," stated Dr. Mpango.
Deputy Minister of Energy Judith
Kapinga expressed her gratitude to the Vice President and the government led by
President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for allocating sufficient funds for various
projects, particularly the Nguruka substation. She pledged continued
supervision of energy projects to ensure a reliable electricity supply for the
citizens.
"We assure you, Mr. Vice
President, that the Ministry of Energy will not be an obstacle to electricity
access. We commit to providing reliable electricity to all Tanzanians,"
affirmed Kapinga.
She added that the Ministry will
continue to implement strategic electricity projects, including the Igamba
Kidahwe to Malagarasi power project, which is already in progress with the
contractor having taken possession of the project site.
The 132 kV power transmission line from Tabora to Kigoma and the Nguruka substation project is being executed by TBEA, a Chinese company, at a cost exceeding 12 billion shillings. Meanwhile, the Kidahwe substation, which will receive electricity from Nyakanazi, costs 5 billion shillings and is being constructed by Tanesco's in-house experts.
Upon completion, this
construction will connect four districts in the Kigoma region—Kigoma Urban,
Buhigwe, Uvinza, and Kasulu—and significantly enhance electricity availability
in the region.
The successful execution of
these projects is anticipated to drive economic growth, attract investment, and
improve the quality of life for the residents of Kigoma and surrounding areas.
Dr. Mpango's visit underscores the government's commitment to advancing
infrastructure development as a cornerstone for national progress.
