Tanzania is taking the lead in Africa’s clean energy transition, with President Samia Suluhu Hassan affirming the country’s commitment to ensuring access to sustainable energy solutions.
Speaking at the national commemoration of International Women’s Day in Arusha on March 8, 2025, she emphasized that clean energy is not just a priority for Tanzania but an agenda for the entire continent.
"As Tanzania, we have a special plan for clean energy. Since we are leading this initiative in Africa, clean cooking energy is our national agenda, and we are taking responsibility for it at the continental level," she said.
Dr. Samia highlighted that energy plays a crucial role in Tanzania’s seventh development plan, and the government has made significant progress in ensuring access to cleaner energy sources.
She pointed to the success of major projects, including the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Dam, which generates 2,115 megawatts.
"It's not just about energy, but clean energy. We have done a commendable job by constructing the Nyerere Dam, along with six smaller dams supplying electricity to various regions," she explained.
On electricity distribution, the President noted that all 12,300 villages in Tanzania now have access to power, with efforts continuing to connect hamlets.
"We have made great progress. Initially, electricity was available in only a few villages, but now, all are connected. As we speak, several hamlets have also been electrified, and the work continues," she said.
She also underscored the country’s move away from oil-based power generation, shifting toward a cleaner mix of natural gas and hydropower.
"Tanzania is blessed with natural gas, and we continue to process it to ensure a more sustainable energy supply. We are moving away from oil-based electricity and focusing on hydropower and natural gas," she stated.
The event was attended by officials from the Ministry of Energy, among others, highlighting Tanzania’s commitment to a sustainable energy future.