The World Bank has committed to financing the construction of a 400-kilovolt electricity transmission line connecting Uganda and Tanzania, following a green light confirming the project poses no significant environmental risks.
The announcement was made during a meeting between Dr. Rhonda Jordan, Energy Specialist at the World Bank’s Tanzania office, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Engineer Felchesmi Mramba, held at the Ministry's offices in Mtumba Government City, Dodoma.
Dr. Jordan noted that the World Bank Board of Directors is now ready to release funds for the long-awaited cross-border energy project.A
“The Board has approved the funding following thorough environmental assessments which showed no harmful impact. We’re now moving forward with implementation,” she said.
The project had previously faced delays due to environmental concerns, which have now been resolved.
The 400kV transmission line is expected to enhance regional power trade and stability, in line with broader goals of improving energy access across East and Southern Africa.
In addition to the funding announcement, Dr. Jordan invited the Ministry of Energy to participate in the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in New York, scheduled for September 2025. The Assembly will feature high level discussions on global energy access and climate resilience.
In response, PS Mramba reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to collaborating with the World Bank in energy development initiatives, including the Tanzania-Zambia (TAZA) power transmission project and other similar ventures.
“Our cooperation with the World Bank continues to yield critical support for Tanzania’s energy infrastructure and sustainability goals,” said Mramba.
Also present at the meeting were Innocent Luoga, Commissioner for Electricity and Renewable Energy, and Chief Energy EngineeEngineer r John Mageni.