The solar power project being implemented in Kishapu District, Shinyanga Region, is set to significantly improve the availability of reliable electricity for citizens while supporting economic growth across Tanzania, Deputy Minister for Energy, Ms. Salome Makamba, has said.
Speaking on January 9, 2026, during an inspection tour of the Kishapu solar power project, the expansion of the Ibadakuli power substation, and the Ibadakuli–Simiyu electricity transmission line, Ms. Salome said the government is prioritizing energy projects that directly benefit citizens by ensuring stable and sufficient power supply to the national grid.
She said the project is part of the continued efforts by the Sixth Phase Government, under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, to make electricity widely available and affordable, enabling citizens to improve their daily lives and expand economic activities.
“Reliable electricity is essential for citizens because it supports small businesses, industries, health services, education, and access to clean water,” Ms. Salome said.
“When power is stable, citizens can work longer hours, increase productivity, and improve household incomes.”he added
The Deputy Minister explained that electricity generated from the Kishapu solar project will be fed into the national grid, meaning its benefits will be felt beyond Shinyanga Region. She said stronger power supply will help reduce outages, support new investments, and create more employment opportunities for Tanzanians.
On the progress of the project, Kishapu Solar Project Manager, Mr. Emanuel Anderson, said construction has reached more than 89 percent completion.
He noted that the project involves the installation of 82,000 solar panels, each with a capacity of 605 watts, which will generate 50 megawatts in the first phase.
Mr. Anderson added that testing of some equipment has already started and that the project has provided jobs to many Tanzanians during its implementation. He said the project also protects the environment by using clean solar energy that does not produce harmful carbon emissions.
“This project supports citizens not only through electricity supply, but also by protecting the environment for future generations,” he said.
Meanwhile, Acting Director of Power Projects at TANESCO Headquarters, Mr. Frank Mashalo, said the expansion of the Ibadakuli power substation includes the installation of a 780 MVA transformer.
He explained that the upgrade will strengthen electricity distribution in Shinyanga and neighboring regions, reducing power interruptions and improving service reliability for households and businesses.
Mr. Mashalo said the projects are being implemented by Sieyuan Electric from China and Kalpataru from India, ensuring modern and durable infrastructure that will serve citizens for many years.
Before starting the inspection tour, Ms. Salome and her delegation paid a courtesy visit to Shinyanga Regional Commissioner, Mr. Mboni Mhita, who thanked the government for closely supervising energy projects that directly address citizens’ needs.
All the projects the Kishapu solar power plant, the expansion of the Ibadakuli power substation, and the Shinyanga–Simiyu transmission line are fully funded by the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania.
The government says these investments reflect its commitment to improving access to electricity, strengthening the economy, and ensuring that development projects deliver real benefits to citizens.
