The Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project, one of Tanzania's largest and most anticipated energy projects, has officially been completed, signaling a major step forward in the country’s energy sector.
"We are here today with great joy, knowing that all nine turbines are operational, generating electricity. I am pleased to inform Tanzanians that the dream of having electricity from this major source in Africa has been realized," said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, during his visit to the site on April 5, 2025.
He assured Tanzanians that they could now look forward to reliable and consistent electricity from the project, which has been a long-awaited dream for the country.
Dr. Biteko attributed the successful completion of the project to the vision and leadership of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
"The completion of this project is a direct result of the vision of the Sixth Phase Government under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, who took over the project when it was only 33% complete. In just four years of her leadership, the project has been successfully finished," he explained.
He also pointed out that the next step is to strengthen infrastructure to ensure electricity reaches every Tanzanian citizen.
"The remaining task is to enhance the infrastructure for delivering electricity to the citizens," Dr. Biteko emphasized.
With Tanzania’s increased ability to generate electricity, the government is now focused on expanding its reach beyond its borders.
"We are now in discussions with Zambia to sell electricity, and the power line connecting the two countries is already under construction," Dr. Biteko shared.
This move, he added, fulfills a long-standing goal for Tanzania to become an electricity exporter in the region.
"What we have been talking about for many years, that Tanzania will have the capacity to sell electricity abroad, has now been realized under the leadership of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan. We thank the President for this remarkable achievement," he said.
Professor Kitila Mkumbo, Minister of State in the President’s Office for Planning and Investment, described the completion of the project as an economic breakthrough for Tanzania.
"The completion of this project is an economic liberation for the country," he remarked. Hamadi Masauni, Minister of State in the Vice President’s Office for Union and Environment, highlighted the historical significance of the project.
"Tanzania has now entered the history books of Africa," he stated, while stressing the importance of protecting water sources to ensure the project’s sustainability.
Dr. Biteko also extended his gratitude to the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) for its role in executing the project to international standards.
"We commend TANESCO for delivering this project at such a high level. I particularly want to acknowledge the leadership of the Managing Director, Mr. Gissima Nyamo-Hanga, for his exceptional efforts in overseeing this important project," he said.
The Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project, which has cost over 6.5 trillion Tanzanian Shillings, is now nearly fully funded, with the government having already paid more than 99.5% of the total cost.