Deputy Minister of Energy, Salome Makamba, has raised concerns over the slow pace of work on the 49.5 MW Malagarasi Hydropower Project in Uvinza District, Kigoma Region, during an on-site inspection today.
Salome noted that several key areas, including the dam, river diversion structures, the powerhouse building, and worker camps, were understaffed, contrary to the project’s contractual requirements.
She directed the Chinese contractor, Dongfang Company, to increase labor and equipment immediately and complete the worker accommodation within one month.
The contractor was also ordered to submit a revised work schedule to accelerate progress.
Project supervisors from TANESCO and the consulting firms Multiconsult Norge AS (Norway) and Norplan (Tanzania) were instructed to relocate to the project site within a month to provide closer supervision and ensure timely completion.
"President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan has directed the Energy Ministry to produce 8,000 MW of electricity by 2030. We cannot allow delays to derail this national target. The contractor must complete work by October 2027 as per the contract," Salome emphasized.
Uvinza District Commissioner, Dinah Mathamani, assured that the district would closely monitor ministry directives to ensure the contractor fulfills the agreement.
Engineer Edson Ngabo, representing the Energy Ministry’s Secretary-General for Electricity and Renewable Energy, reported that the project’s progress currently stands at 23 percent, below the planned 28 percent.
Other project components, including electricity distribution to seven villages covering 18 sub-villages, and the 132 kV transmission line from the project site to Kidahwe, have been completed 100 percent.
Salome stressed that the ministry will continue supervising the contractor closely to ensure the project is delivered on time and to the required standards.