Electricity reliability in Newala District is set to improve following the completion of a new 33-kilovolt transmission line connecting Masasi and Newala, a project delivered five months ahead of schedule by the Electrical Transmission and Distribution Construction and Maintenance Company (ETDCO).
The 76-kilometre transmission line was officially commissioned on Tuesday by the Minister for Energy, Deogratius Ndejembi, who said the investment is part of the government's drive to strengthen electricity infrastructure and support economic transformation in the southern regions.
Mr Ndejembi said expanding access to reliable electricity remains a priority under the Sixth Phase Government, with several strategic projects underway to enhance power supply in Mtwara and Lindi regions.
He commended ETDCO for completing the project within seven months instead of the 12 months stipulated in the contract, urging contractors executing energy projects to maintain high standards of professionalism and timely delivery.
"Delivering projects on time is essential to ensuring citizens and businesses benefit from reliable electricity, which is critical for economic development," he said.
Permanent Secretary for Electricity and Renewable Energy in the Ministry of Energy, Eng. Felchesmi Mramba, said the government is continuing to reinforce the electricity network in the southern corridor through major investments, including the ongoing 220kV Masasi–Mahumbika transmission line.
He noted that the projects are designed to improve grid stability and meet growing electricity demand from households, businesses and industries.
TANESCO Managing Director Lazaro Twange said the newly commissioned line is expected to reduce power interruptions and improve the quality of electricity supply in Newala District and surrounding areas.
He also announced that TANESCO plans to invest TZS5.27 billion in constructing a new switching station in Newala to further strengthen the area's electricity distribution network.
ETDCO Acting General Manager Eng. Richard Mwanja said the company completed the approximately 76-kilometre transmission line in seven months, significantly ahead of the contractual completion period.
The project, valued at approximately TZS4.6 billion, is expected to unlock investment opportunities by providing a more reliable electricity supply for industries, agriculture and small businesses.
Speaking on behalf of residents, Newala Rural Member of Parliament Dr Yahya Nawanda said the improved electricity infrastructure would stimulate local economic activity, create employment opportunities and support industrial growth.
Residents welcomed the project, expressing optimism that a more reliable power supply would boost productivity, expand business operations and improve livelihoods across the district.
