By The Respondent reporter
The Rural Energy Agency (REA) has allocated TZS 4.6 billion to support the Lupali Hydropower Project, generating 317 kilowatts of electricity.
The project, being implemented by the Benedictine Sisters of St. Gertrud Convent Imiliwaha, was revealed on August 1, 2025, by REA Board Member Mr. James Mabula.
Speaking on behalf of the Board Chairman, Ambassador (Rtd.) Major General Jacob Kingu, Mr James said that the plant utilizes small waterfall streams of the Lupali River to generate power in Njombe Region
According to Mr. Mabula, REA's funding has facilitated the construction of the power generation station and its distribution infrastructure at the Imiliwaha Sisters Convent, as well as in surrounding villages including Boimanda, Kitulila, and Matola.
The funds also supported feasibility studies for the project, including preliminary project research, construction of the 11kV main transmission line covering 23.48 kilometers, and the low-voltage distribution network spanning 30.61 kilometers.
The implementation of the project has reached 98% completion, with major milestones achieved, including the construction of the water intake weir and flood spillway channel, both now finalized.
He further noted that the powerhouse construction, tailrace channel, penstock (water conduit), and procurement of electrical equipment have progressed significantly, with the latter reaching 90% completion.
On his part, the project’s Business Advisor, Mr. Malimi Sitta, stated that once completed, the electricity generated will be sold directly to TANESCO, with a power purchase agreement (PPA) already signed.
He emphasized that the project will provide reliable energy for households and businesses in the area, while also reducing the use of environmentally unfriendly energy sources such as charcoal and firewood.
The REB delegation’s visit to Njombe is part of its mission to assess the progress of REA-funded projects in the region and to address challenges faced by small-scale renewable energy developers across the country.