The Rural Energy Agency (REA), working hand in hand with the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO), has launched a drive to encourage communities in Simiyu Region to sign up for electricity services in their villages and hamlets.
The campaign, which kicked off on October 3, 2025, seeks to expand rural access to power and raise awareness of its economic and social benefits.
REA Community Development Officer Jaina Msuya said the initiative is designed to make rural households understand both the affordability and advantages of connecting to electricity.
“Joining while the contractor is still on-site costs only Tsh27,000. Although wiring expenses remain separate, households unable to pay immediately can opt for a device known as Umeme Tayari (UMETA) at just Tsh36,000,” she said.
REA’s Regional Project Engineer in Simiyu, Deusdedit Msanze, noted that many residents wait too long to sign up, only to face higher costs once contractors have completed their work and left the project sites.
“Mobilisation is key because it reminds people to act early. Late connections end up being more expensive for households,” he said.
The message was reinforced during a community meeting in Mwamahe Hamlet, Ikinabushu Village, Bariadi District.
There, contractor Jiangsu Etern Co. Ltd of China has already completed infrastructure works, and the project is set to be switched on by November 15, 2025. Out of 43 eligible households, only seven had signed up before the sensitisation session.
By the end of the meeting, 20 more residents had filled in application forms, supported by TANESCO Simiyu Customer Relations Officer, Amon Bidebuye.
Mr. Bidebuye urged residents to take advantage of mobile technology to apply for connections. “You do not need to travel to district or regional offices.
With any phone smartphone or a basic handset you can apply by dialing 15200# and following simple instructions. All that is required is a NIDA number or identity card,” he explained.
The awareness campaign will continue in other parts of Simiyu, including Itilima, Meatu and Maswa districts, using both community meetings and house-to-house visits.
Officials say the goal is to accelerate rural electrification and ensure that as many households as possible benefit from the ongoing projects.