The government has stepped up efforts to strengthen Tanzania’s electricity infrastructure by replacing ageing wooden poles with concrete and steel alternatives in a move aimed at reducing frequent power disruptions caused by collapsing poles.
Deputy Minister for Energy, Hon. Salome Makamba, told Parliament in Dodoma on Thursday that the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) is implementing a nationwide programme to replace vulnerable poles and reinforce electricity infrastructure in areas prone to heavy rains and unstable soil conditions.
She was responding to a question from Mvomero Member of Parliament, Hon. Sara Msafiri Ally, who sought clarification on when the government would permanently address the recurring problem of falling electricity poles in Mgeta Division.
Makamba said the government recognises the scale of the challenge, particularly in areas experiencing persistent rainfall, weak soil structures and ageing infrastructure, all of which have contributed to the collapse of wooden poles and interruptions in electricity supply.
“To address these challenges, TANESCO is replacing old poles with stronger concrete and steel poles while also reinforcing pole foundations in areas with soft soils,” she said.
She noted that TANESCO has intensified routine inspections of power infrastructure to detect weaknesses early and minimise the risk of outages and damage.
According to the Deputy Minister, the Ministry of Energy has already set aside a special budget for the replacement of wooden poles in humid areas and locations heavily exposed to human activities that increase infrastructure vulnerability.
The government’s latest intervention reflects broader efforts to modernise the national power distribution network as Tanzania continues to expand electricity access across rural and urban areas.
Makamba also urged wananchi to protect public infrastructure by avoiding destructive land-use practices, particularly uncontrolled bush burning, which she said has been damaging electricity poles and other power facilities in several parts of the country.
Energy sector analysts say the transition to concrete and steel poles could significantly improve the reliability and resilience of the national grid, especially in regions frequently affected by extreme weather conditions.
