In a significant step forward for energy security in East Africa, the Rusumo Hydroelectric Project has commenced generating 80 megawatts (MW) of power, providing a critical boost to the electricity grids of Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi.
Each country will receive an equal share of 26.6 MW, bolstering national power supplies and supporting efforts toward sustainable energy access in the region.
The Rusumo project, located on the Kagera River along the border of Tanzania and Rwanda, is one of the most ambitious hydroelectric projects in East Africa, designed to address persistent power shortages in the three nations.
The project, implemented by the Rusumo Power Company Limited (RPCL)—a company jointly owned by Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi—is funded by the World Bank and the African Development Bank, with contributions of approximately $340 million.
The collaborative initiative aims not only to generate reliable power but also to promote regional integration and strengthen ties between the countries.
During a recent visit to the project in Ngara District, Kagera Region, Kilumbe Ng'enda, Vice Chairman of Tanzania’s Parliament Standing Committee on Energy and Minerals, confirmed the plant's commencement of operations.
Ng’enda described the project as a vital asset in the Tanzanian government’s broader commitment to delivering sufficient and dependable electricity to drive both social and economic development. He emphasized that the project aligns closely with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision to secure Tanzania’s energy future and improve the living standards of its citizens.
Ng'enda also urged the implementers of the project to maintain high productivity levels and ensure that the financial resources are used efficiently to support the project's milestones.
He stressed the importance of transparency in reporting the progress of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, which are intended to benefit local communities in the surrounding areas through infrastructure improvements, education programs, and health services.
The Parliamentary Committee praised the Rusumo project’s achievements and expressed satisfaction with the operational collaboration among the three nations, noting that the project exemplifies effective cross-border cooperation.
The Committee also highlighted the project's role in solidifying peaceful relations and fostering friendship among Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi, with the shared commitment to energy and development goals.
Dr. Khatibu Kazungu, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Tanzania's Ministry of Energy responsible for Electricity and Renewable Energy, acknowledged the Committee's dedication to overseeing the project’s development. Kazungu also pointed out the significance of the Rusumo project as a national interest and a model for future collaborative projects in the energy sector across the region.
He further reassured that the Ministry of Energy is committed to implementing the Committee's recommendations and ensuring that the Rusumo project is managed to maximize the efficiency of the energy sector.
Dr. Kazungu noted that by improving grid stability and extending electricity access, the Rusumo Hydroelectric Project will enable local industries and businesses to thrive, contributing to economic growth and social welfare for communities in Tanzania and neighboring countries.
The Rusumo Hydroelectric Project, which first broke ground in 2017, has been faced with complex engineering challenges and delays.
However, with the recent launch of power generation, the project has entered a promising new phase, reflecting the strong resolve of all involved stakeholders.
The hydropower plant, drawing its energy from the natural flow of the Kagera River, exemplifies a commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly power production, helping the region shift away from dependency on non-renewable energy sources.
With this development, the Rusumo Hydroelectric Project stands as a milestone in East Africa’s journey towards regional energy sufficiency, supporting broader economic goals, reducing reliance on expensive imported fuels, and creating a positive impact on millions of lives.
