Electricity consumption in Kigoma Region has surged following its long-awaited connection to the national power grid, in a development that is being hailed as a transformative step for the region’s socio-economic growth.
Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) Managing Director, Mr. Lazaro Twange, said demand for electricity in Kigoma had grown rapidly since the region was connected to the national grid in December 2024, with consumption rising from 17 megawatts to 24 megawatts in just six months.
“This surge in consumption clearly reflects the region’s long-standing demand for reliable power. Connecting Kigoma to the national grid has not only improved access but has also triggered positive change across sectors,” Mr. Twange said on July 2, during a meeting with Kigoma Regional Commissioner, Mr. Simon Siro.
Mr. Twange reaffirmed TANESCO’s commitment to ensuring an uninterrupted and adequate supply of electricity for all users, including households, businesses, and agricultural operations.
“We assure residents of Kigoma that TANESCO is ready to address any electricity-related challenges that may arise. Our goal is to provide consistent and dependable power to support the region’s development,” he said.
The TANESCO chief also used the occasion to support the government’s clean energy campaign, handing over electric stoves to the families of the current Regional Commissioner Mr. Siro and his predecessor Mr. Thobias Andengenye.
He urged the leaders to lead by example in promoting the use of electricity for cooking, as part of broader efforts to reduce reliance on charcoal and firewood.
“We hope this initiative inspires others to adopt clean cooking technologies, which are not only safer but also environmentally friendly,” he added.
In a separate engagement, Mr. Twange toured two major ongoing energy infrastructure projects: the 49.5-megawatt Malagarasi Hydropower Project and the Kidahwe Substation. The projects are key to enhancing the region’s energy stability and capacity.
He acknowledged the government’s strong support for the Malagarasi project, citing the allocation of over Sh400 billion by President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration for its implementation.
“We are grateful for the President’s continued investment in energy infrastructure. Construction of the Malagarasi project is progressing steadily, with 10 percent of the work already completed,” he noted.
Mr. Twange’s visit to Kigoma forms part of a broader inspection tour across the Western Zone, where TANESCO is monitoring the progress of strategic projects aimed at boosting access to electricity and modern energy services.
The connection of Kigoma to the national grid marks a significant milestone for the region, which had previously relied on isolated power systems. It is expected to unlock new opportunities in trade, industry, and social services placing Kigoma firmly on Tanzania’s national development map.