Tanzania and Japan are opening a new phase of cooperation in the energy sector, with a strong focus on attracting private investment and deploying advanced power generation technologies to boost electricity supply.
The shift was outlined in Dar es Salaam on April 30, 2026, during talks between the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy (Petroleum and Natural Gas), Dr James Mataragio, and the new Chief Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica), Dr Kuge Katsuya.
Dr Mataragio said the government is repositioning the energy sector to draw more international capital, particularly from Japan, as demand for reliable power continues to grow across industries and households.
He noted that while Tanzania and Japan have a long history of cooperation, the next stage should prioritise large-scale investments capable of increasing generation capacity and widening access to electricity.
“This is the time to encourage Japanese private companies and financial institutions to invest directly in energy projects in Tanzania,” he said.
He added that Jica has been a key partner in the sector, supporting major initiatives such as the Natural Gas Utilisation Master Plan, capacity building for local experts in gas use, and the implementation of several electricity projects.
Dr Mataragio also reiterated Tanzania’s expectation for Japan to support the long-discussed 300-megawatt power project in Mtwara Region, describing it as critical for strengthening the country’s energy mix.
For his part, Dr Kuge said the new direction of cooperation will focus on training in nuclear energy technology, improving efficiency in gas-fired power generation and linking Tanzania with Japanese private investors.
His remarks signal growing prospects for Tanzania to tap into Japan’s advanced energy technologies, as one of the world’s leaders in innovation and efficiency in the sector.
The meeting reflects a broader transition in Tanzania-Japan relations from aid-based cooperation to investment-led partnerships and technology transfer an approach seen as key to accelerating growth in Tanzania’s energy sector.
