The Rural Energy Agency (REA) has announced five major priorities that will guide the implementation of rural electrification and clean energy projects in the 2026/2027 financial year, with a strong focus on expanding electricity access, promoting clean cooking solutions, and strengthening renewable energy use across Tanzania.
The priorities were presented on April 17, 2026 in Mwanza during a key stakeholder meeting that brought together REA officials, government representatives, and development partners.
The meeting aimed at reviewing the upcoming work plan and budget, as well as enhancing accountability on how development funds are being utilized in rural energy projects.
Speaking during the meeting, REA Director General Engineer Hassan Saidy said the engagement with stakeholders is essential in strengthening transparency and ensuring that partners clearly understand the impact of their contributions in expanding energy access across rural communities.
He said the agency will focus on five main priorities in the new financial year. These include accelerating electricity connection to the remaining 14,000 un-electrified hamlets, fast-tracking household electricity connections, increasing access to clean cooking energy in rural areas, promoting renewable energy projects, and improving efficient use of electricity for productive activities.
Engineer Saidy emphasized that these priorities are designed to ensure that rural communities benefit equally from national development efforts, noting that energy remains a key foundation for economic growth, job creation, and improved social services such as education and healthcare.
He added that REA will continue working closely with development partners and the government to ensure that rural electrification projects reach even the most remote areas, while also promoting sustainable energy solutions that protect the environment.
REA Board Chairperson, retired Major General Jacob Kingu, said the agency’s budget is supported by both the Government of Tanzania and development partners including the World Bank, Government of Norway, Government of Sweden, UNDP, and the French Development Agency (AFD).
He said these partnerships have significantly contributed to the expansion of electricity access in rural areas, helping to transform livelihoods and support economic activities in underserved communities.
Major General Kingu also stressed the importance of accountability in managing funds, saying continuous engagement with stakeholders helps ensure that every investment delivers real benefits to citizens.
Opening the meeting, Mwanza Regional Commissioner Said Mtanda praised REA for its ongoing efforts in implementing energy projects in the region, noting that Mwanza continues to benefit from various initiatives aimed at improving access to electricity and clean energy.
He said some of the projects being implemented include rural electrification to villages and hamlets, distribution of affordable improved cookstoves, installation of solar home systems, and solar-powered fish processing and drying projects for dagaa fishing communities.
He also highlighted clean cooking energy initiatives in correctional facilities, aimed at reducing reliance on firewood and protecting the environment.
Mtanda said the government will continue to work closely with REA and other stakeholders to ensure successful implementation of all energy projects, warning that strict action will be taken against anyone attempting to sabotage development efforts.
He further urged citizens to embrace environmental conservation, noting that continued use of firewood and charcoal contributes to deforestation and environmental degradation.
Stakeholders present at the meeting welcomed REA’s priorities, saying rural electrification plays a key role in improving livelihoods, supporting small businesses, enhancing education services, and strengthening healthcare delivery.
They agreed that continued collaboration between the government, REA, and development partners is crucial in achieving universal access to reliable and clean energy across Tanzania.
The Mwanza meeting was described as an important step in strengthening coordination and ensuring that rural energy projects continue to deliver meaningful impact to citizens in the 2026/2027 financial year.
