In a move set to ignite economic growth in southern Tanzania, the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) has officially started compensating residents affected by the construction of a major 220-kilovolt power transmission line from Tunduru to Masasi.
A total of 1,526 residents will benefit from compensation payments amounting to TZS 4.7 billion, enabling the long-anticipated construction of the transmission line and a new power substation in Masasi District, Mtwara Region.
Residents have been given 30 days to relocate from the project areas to pave the way for smooth implementation.
Speaking during a symbolic cheque handover ceremony on April 26, 2025, Sululu Village Chairman Venant Kamtahule praised TANESCO for the milestone.
"We are deeply grateful to TANESCO. Sixteen of our villagers have received their compensation. This is a major success we've awaited for a long time. We believe this project will significantly improve access to reliable electricity and spur industrial growth, especially for cashew processing," he said.
Masasi District TANESCO Manager, Engineer Kidala Maeda, confirmed that the compensation process began on April 25, 2025.
He emphasized that this step will allow contractors to proceed with construction activities, particularly at the Masasi substation site, which is currently in its early stages.
"As you know, the Lindi and Mtwara regions are not yet connected to the national power grid. We rely on gas-powered generators in Mtwara. However, the government decided it is time for the South to benefit from the national grid, especially now that the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project is complete," Engineer Kidala explained.
The Tunduru–Masasi high-voltage project, including the construction of the Masasi substation, is expected to cost more than TZS 70 billion.
It will pass through 43 villages in Masasi, Nanyumbu, and Tunduru districts. The project marks a transformative step toward integrating the southern regions into the national grid and boosting industrialization efforts.