Mbeya Region has received TZS 42.6 billion to expand electricity access to 316 hamlets under the HEP 2B rural electrification project, as the government steps up efforts to reach underserved communities.
Regional Commissioner Beno Malisa said the funds, provided through the Rural Energy Agency (REA), will enable residents to access reliable electricity, boosting economic activities and improving livelihoods across the region.
He urged wananchi to take advantage of the subsidised electricity connection fee of TZS 27,000, saying affordable access to power would help households and small businesses to grow.
“Electricity is a catalyst for development. I call upon wananchi to seize this opportunity and connect to the power brought by the government through REA,” Mr Malisa said.
REA officials said Mbeya Region has a total of 2,951 hamlets, of which 1,970 are already connected to electricity, representing 67 percent coverage. The remaining hamlets without electricity stand at 1,981.
Under the HEP 2B project, 316 hamlets have been earmarked for electrification in the current phase, while 665 hamlets will be covered under subsequent programmes.
REA said contractors are required to implement the project in line with established standards and procedures to ensure quality and timely completion.
White City International Contractors Ltd, which is executing the project, pledged to complete the works on schedule. Project manager Baraka Mungai thanked the government and REA for the opportunity and assured regional authorities that the project would be delivered on time to maximise benefits for residents.
The investment is expected to accelerate Mbeya’s progress towards universal access to electricity, supporting economic growth, service delivery and overall regional development.