Tanzania and Russia are forging stronger ties in the energy sector, with key discussions held to attract new investments, promote technological exchange, and enhance cooperation in strategic areas including clean energy, cybersecurity, and infrastructure resilience.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, met with Russia’s Minister of Energy, Sergey Tsivilev, on the sidelines of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation in energy and other priority sectors.
During the talks, Dr. Biteko said Russian investment in Tanzania currently totals USD 424 million across 44 projects, employing more than 3,000 people.
He highlighted the vast potential in Tanzania’s energy sector, particularly in renewable energy and clean cooking technologies.
“Tanzania generates over 61 percent of its electricity from renewable sources, and we have investment opportunities worth USD 4 billion in the energy sector alone,” said Dr. Biteko.
He underscored Tanzania’s recent policy reforms aimed at attracting private sector investment, especially in off-grid and clean energy solutions.
He cited the January 2025 Africa Heads of State Energy Summit held in Dar es Salaam as a major step forward in addressing energy access for over 600 million Africans currently without electricity.
Dr. Biteko extended a formal invitation to Russian investors to explore opportunities in clean cooking energy, public-private partnerships, and independent power production.
“We welcome Russian partners to join us in delivering affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy to Tanzanians,” he said.
The meeting also served to celebrate 64 years of diplomatic ties between Tanzania and Russia. Dr. Biteko praised the longstanding relationship, saying it continues to bring mutual benefits to both nations.
On his part, Minister Tsivilev emphasized Russia’s commitment to supporting Tanzania through technology transfer and human capital development.
“Russia stands ready to offer technological support and capacity building for African professionals to ensure energy independence and innovation,” he said.
He affirmed that Russia’s approach to partnership is anchored in fairness and long-term development, and pledged support in key areas such as public health, cybersecurity, and the protection of critical national infrastructure.
Also present was Maxim Sergeev, CEO of INTER RAO Export one of the largest energy companies in the world who expressed interest in investing in Tanzania’s energy sector.
He noted that the company has capacity to manufacture high-grade energy equipment such as turbines and generators, and it currently manages annual contracts worth USD 8 billion globally.
“We see significant potential in Tanzania. Our experience and capabilities align well with the country's energy goals,” said Sergeev.
The discussions were attended by Tanzania’s Ambassador to Moscow, Frederick Kibuta, Director of Economic Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador John Ulanga, and Assistant Commissioner for Petroleum Development, Eng. Marwa Petro.
Meanwhile, TANESCO Managing Director Lazaro Twange met separately with representatives from Russian firms Rosatom and Unigreen to explore collaboration on nuclear and solar energy projects. Unigreen is currently in the process of formalizing its investment in Tanzania.
The strengthening of ties with Russia marks another milestone in Tanzania’s drive to diversify its energy partnerships and accelerate access to modern energy for all citizens.