By Charles Mkoka
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy and Minerals has urged the Ministry of Energy to intensify its oversight of the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP) to guarantee the timely completion of the massive venture.
During a site visit on September 7, 2024, the Committee's Vice-Chairman, Hon. Kirumbe Ng'enda, emphasized the importance of sticking to the schedule, with the project set to generate a remarkable 2,115 megawatts upon completion.
"The Ministry must continue supervising this project diligently so that all nine machines are finalized on time," Hon. Ng'enda remarked, praising the efforts made so far.
Three of the hydropower plant's turbines are already operational, producing 705 megawatts, while a fourth turbine, machine number six, is in its final stages. The Committee lauded the Government for ensuring steady progress on the remaining machines.
Deputy Minister of Energy, Hon. Judith Kapinga, who was also present at the site, highlighted the strong collaboration between the Ministry and the Committee. "Your role in overseeing the Government is crucial, and we ensure your directives are implemented, as evidenced by the project's impressive 98% completion," she said.
Kapinga assured that under the leadership of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Hon. Dr. Doto Biteko, the Ministry will continue its vigilance to ensure the project's completion without delays. She added that the project contractor has already received approximately Sh 6.3 trillion out of the total Sh 6.5 trillion allocated for the project.
With the project's completion drawing near, all eyes are on the Ministry to see the successful fulfillment of this critical national infrastructure.