Dar es Salaam. The expansion of the Dege power receiving and distribution station has reached 60 percent completion; a milestone the government says is central to stabilising Kigamboni’s electricity supply and ending recurring power challenges in the fast-growing district.
Building on this progress, Energy Minister Deogratius Ndejembi, during a working tour on Saturday, November 29, 2025, directed the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) to take immediate technical actions to improve power reliability within the Kigamboni region.
His visit to the Dege station underscored the urgency of accelerating interventions that address both short-term shortages and long-term infrastructure needs.
“Today we came to assess how quickly TANESCO can resolve this challenge, and I am satisfied that there are solid long-term plans in place to ensure reliable electricity,” Mr Ndejembi said, noting that the Dege expansion — which includes installation of a 120 MVA transformer — is a core component of that broader solution.
As an immediate remedy, TANESCO has introduced a short-term measure to channel 22 megawatts from the Mbagala substation to Kigamboni.
This temporary supply boost is expected to reduce pressure on the existing network while the major Dege upgrade continues.
“TANESCO has assured me that a dedicated line bringing 22 megawatts from Mbagala to Kigamboni is being fast-tracked to stabilise power availability,” Mr Ndejembi said.
Alongside these rapid interventions, the utility is undertaking a broader program to strengthen the distribution network.
This includes the installation of 93 transformers to eliminate low-voltage problems, as well as an additional 50 transformers scheduled for completion by the end of March 2026 — a move that analysts say could significantly reduce frequent outages.
“To overcome the current challenges, TANESCO has already begun installing transformers to address low-voltage issues, with another 50 transformers to be added by March 2026,” Minister Ndejembi added, noting that such measures lay the foundation for long-term grid stability.
Kigamboni District Commissioner Mikaya Dalmia welcomed the minister’s visit, calling it a timely intervention that aligns with residents’ urgent needs.
She pledged continued support to TANESCO as the utility works to improve service reliability.
“I sincerely thank the Minister for this results-oriented visit. I assure you that we will continue cooperating with TANESCO to ensure Kigamboni residents receive reliable electricity,” she said, urging citizens to remain patient as the improvements take effect.
TANESCO’s Deputy Managing Director for Distribution, Mr Athanasius Nangali, reaffirmed the utility’s commitment to implementing the minister’s directives without delay.
“As a utility, we will immediately act on the directives — installing the required transformers and transferring the 22 megawatts to Kigamboni to stabilise the area,” he said.
Minister Ndejembi’s visit follows ongoing government efforts to monitor progress of key electricity projects in Kigamboni, with the Dege expansion — now 60 percent complete — expected to be pivotal in providing sufficient power to support the district’s economic and social development once fully operational.
