Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) has recovered around TZS 200 million following the detection of electricity theft at SANFU Factory in Mwanambaya, Mkuranga.
The factory, which produces fuel from used vehicle tires, was found manipulating its electricity meter during TANESCO’s special inspection operations in the Eastern Zone of Pwani Kusini Region.
The inspection revealed that the EDMI T2 meter installed at the factory had its protective seal tampered with, allowing the facility to underreport its electricity consumption.
This manipulation led to significantly lower bills, depriving both TANESCO and the government of much-needed revenue.
Speaking on October 7, 2025, TANESCO Revenue Assurance Engineer Mposhelei Mwasongo said the illegal practice began in December 2024 and continued until the factory was caught on October 6, 2025.
The total debt accumulated during this period is estimated at TZS 221,432,346.56, with monthly bills expected to exceed TZS 20 million.
Senior TANESCO Security Officer Stephen Maganga explained that despite the factory’s large investment and production capacity, it had been paying only TZS 72,000 per month.
He warned that such illegal actions severely impact TANESCO’s ability to serve other customers.
“We urge all Tanzanians to understand that TANESCO belongs to all of us. Any sabotage affects government revenue and reduces our capacity to provide reliable electricity to everyone,” Mr. Maganga said.
He called on the public to report any electricity sabotage or illegal usage through TANESCO’s secure online Whistleblower platform.
Verified informants can receive rewards ranging from TZS 100,000 to TZS 1 million, depending on the value of the information, as part of efforts to safeguard the national electricity infrastructure.
TANESCO stressed that these inspections are part of a nationwide effort to curb revenue losses by identifying customers using electricity illegally.
Legal measures, including disconnection, fines, and prosecution for economic sabotage, will be enforced against offenders.