Residents and traders operating near electricity infrastructure in Tegeta and Mabibo areas of Dar es Salaam have been warned to stop carrying out economic activities within designated power transmission zones, as the areas pose serious safety risks.
The warning was issued on May 15, 2026, during an inspection and public awareness exercise conducted by the Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (TANESCO) in collaboration with local government leaders in Wazo Street, Tegeta.
Speaking during the exercise, TANESCO electricity transmission engineer Philemon Tirukaizile said business activities and settlements near high-voltage transmission lines expose people to dangers including severe injuries, permanent disability and death.
He explained that the infrastructure corridors were intentionally left open to ensure public safety and protect electricity facilities from interference.
“When these transmission lines were constructed, a safety corridor of 40 metres was reserved — 20 metres on each side of the poles,” said Mr Tirukaizile. “The purpose is to protect people from electrical hazards and accidents that may occur if wires fall or technical faults arise.”
Wazo Street chairperson Medard Mashauri urged residents occupying the protected areas to vacate voluntarily before authorities begin taking legal action.
He said the land belongs to TANESCO and should not be used for business activities or other developments.
“The government has decided to begin educating the public on the dangers of conducting business near electricity infrastructure,” said Mr Mashauri. “Residents should cooperate and relocate willingly before legal measures are enforced.”
He also condemned acts of vandalism, warning residents against removing or destroying warning signs installed by TANESCO around the restricted areas.
According to him, damaging the signs amounts to sabotage of public infrastructure and undermines efforts to protect lives and property.
Some traders and residents acknowledged that the locations were unsafe and appealed to the government to help them secure alternative areas for their businesses after relocation.
