The Morogoro Regional Elders’ Council has commended the government for its heavy investment in the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP), saying the facility has improved electricity reliability in the region.
The elders visited the power plant on September 10, 2025, as part of their initiative to witness the progress of one of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, implemented through Tanzania Electric Supply Company (Tanesco).
Silver Samweli, an elder from Ifakara, said Morogoro residents are already benefiting from the project.
“One of the greatest advantages of this project is the availability of sufficient electricity. Previously, we experienced frequent power cuts, but that is no longer the case thanks to the Nyerere facility,” he said.
Another elder, Tatu Mbonde, urged Tanzanians to safeguard the project by protecting the water sources that feed the dam.
“I appeal to Morogoro residents and Tanzanians at large to protect this project fully. We should avoid farming or destroying water sources, because the rivers that fill the Nyerere Dam are essential for maintaining stable electricity supply,” she said.
JNHPP director, Engineer Manfred Mbyalu, welcomed the elders, saying their visit reflected the importance of community engagement.
He noted that many Morogoro residents benefited from jobs created during the construction of the project.
“The elders came to confirm the progress of the project and to witness how their youth took part in this strategic national investment that is meant to drive the country’s development,” he said.
The Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project, built on the Rufiji River, is expected to play a critical role in Tanzania’s energy security and industrial growth by significantly boosting the country’s generation capacity.