Dar es Salaam. As the festive season of Christmas and New Year 2025 unfolds, Tanzania shines brightly—not just with holiday lights but with the radiance of hope brought about by remarkable achievements in the energy sector.
This is the story of the country’s transformation, illuminating the lives of generations past and present.
The early days
Before Independence in 1961, the country’s electricity system was rudimentary and unreliable.
Electricity was generated using oil-based systems. Each region operated independently, with no national grid.
Electricity was expensive and scarce, hindering development and economic growth.
In 1967, a historic step was taken with the construction of the Hale Power Plant, which had a capacity of 21 megawatts.
This marked the beginning of the national grid system, delivering power from Hale to Dar es Salaam.
This milestone was a response to the growing demand for energy to drive industries and improve the quality of life for Tanzanians.
Building the nation
The 1970s and 1980s witnessed a surge in the construction of power generation and distribution projects.
The Kidatu Hydropower Plant, with a capacity of 204 megawatts, was commissioned in 1975, followed by the Mtera Power Plant with 80 megawatts in 1988.
These projects significantly strengthened the national grid and expanded electricity access to more regions.
In the 1990s, projects like the New Pangani Falls (68MW) came online, introducing new technology.
By 2006, the Songas plant, utilizing natural gas, highlighted Tanzania’s ability to leverage its own resources for development.
Reaching New Heights
From 2000 onward, efforts to boost electricity generation accelerated.
The Ubungo I, II, and III power plants, along with the Tegeta Gas Engine, were launched, enhancing the country’s capacity.
However, the major breakthroughs came with the Kinyerezi projects, especially Kinyerezi I and II, and ultimately the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP), now generating over 1000 megawatts.
Sustained development
The government continues to invest in expanding the national grid to reach rural areas and improve distribution efficiency.
The Rusumo project, which provides Tanzania with 26.667 megawatts, is an example of regional cooperation aimed at shared development.
Through these efforts, the energy sector has become a cornerstone of economic growth.
Industries, schools, hospitals, and households now benefit from reliable electricity, while farmers and entrepreneurs harness its power to drive progress.
A nation proud
Tanzania’s journey from fragmented power systems to a unified, robust national grid is a testament to visionary leadership and commitment.
