In a powerful endorsement of local capacity, Tanzania’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, has praised the Electricity Transmission and Distribution Construction and Maintenance Company (ETDCO) for its timely and impactful execution of a major energy infrastructure project connecting Tabora and Urambo.
During his inspection visit on May 2, 2025, to the newly completed 132/33 kilovolt substation located in Uhuru, Urambo District, Dr. Biteko described the project as a turning point not just for power supply in the region but for economic transformation as well.
“Since this substation became operational, TANESCO’s revenue has increased by 10 percent in just 20 days,” he revealed. “That tells you everything you need to know about the importance of this project to the people and the nation.”
The Tabora–Urambo electricity transmission line, built at a cost of TSh 44 billion, was implemented under the leadership of ETDCO’s Acting General Manager, CPA Sadock Mugendi.
Of this investment, TZS 24 billion went toward building the transmission line, TZS 16 billion was allocated to the substation, and TZS 4 billion was paid in compensation to affected residents.
What sets this project apart is not just its technical execution, but its accelerated delivery.
“When I last visited, only 10 percent of the work had been done. Today, the project is complete ahead of schedule. That is no small feat,” said Dr. Biteko, calling on other public institutions to emulate ETDCO’s example.
He added that ETDCO’s performance justifies entrusting the company with similar high-stakes infrastructure assignments in the future. “You have proven your worth. Let your work continue to speak for you.”
The substation and transmission line are now feeding power reliably into Urambo and neighboring Kaliua, areas that previously struggled with frequent outages and unstable supply. Local residents say the project has been a game-changer.
“This is the first time we are experiencing consistent electricity. It has energized our businesses and improved our quality of life,” said one trader in Urambo town.
Official records support that sentiment. Monthly revenue in Urambo District has jumped from TZS 327 million to a projected TZS 4.5 billion annually, thanks to the improved electricity coverage and reliability, according to TANESCO’s internal data.
ETDCO’s CPA Mugendi expressed his gratitude for the government’s trust and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to delivering quality projects.
“Our promise is to execute all projects with high quality, on time, and at cost-effective rates, ensuring Tanzanians access reliable electricity across the country,” he said.
The successful completion of the Tabora–Urambo power project not only highlights the growing maturity of Tanzania’s engineering and project management capabilities but also underscores the strategic role of energy infrastructure in unlocking rural economies.
It is a story not just of cables and substations—but of economic resilience, public trust, and national progress.