Tanzania: Gov’t Begins KSh270 Billion Transmission Project To Connect Kagera Region To The National Grid

Tanzania’s Minister for Energy, Hon. Deogratius Ndejembi, has laid the foundation stone for the construction of a 220-kilovolt power transmission line from Benaco to Kyaka, together with the Benaco substation project, which will connect the Kagera Region to the National Grid.

The project, estimated to cost KSh270 billion, (approximately US$103,059,000) is expected to end persistent power outages in districts across the region.

Minister Ndejembi laid the foundation stone on May 9, 2026, in Ngara District, Kagera Region, where he directed the contractor implementing the project to complete it within the 24 months stipulated in the contract.

“What we expect is that within 24 months, Kagera Region will be connected to the National Grid and the electricity challenges raised by the Member of Parliament for Ngara will become history for these citizens,” Ndejembi said.

Addressing residents, the Minister stated that the Benaco–Kyaka transmission line project aims to connect Kagera Region to the National Grid and strengthen the availability of reliable electricity at all times.

He explained that for many years, Kagera Region has depended on electricity imports from neighbouring countries.

Through this project, the region will now be directly connected to the National Grid, a move expected to enhance energy security and strengthen economic and social activities.

Minister Ndejembi also thanked President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for continuing to provide funding for the implementation of various energy projects.

He noted that the Ministry would continue to closely supervise the implementation of the projects to ensure citizens receive reliable electricity supply at all times.

In another development, the Minister directed the Managing Director of TANESCO to ensure that within one month, a higher-capacity transformer is secured and improvements are made to power transmission lines to ensure residents of Ngara District receive stable electricity while awaiting completion of the project.

“Residents of Ngara want reliable electricity without constant interruptions. Therefore, I direct the TANESCO Managing Director and your team to ensure we immediately secure a new high-capacity transformer to guarantee reliable power supply in Ngara District. I am giving you one month,” Ndejembi said.

He added that the project is expected to create jobs, attract investment, and promote agriculture, fishing, livestock farming, and industrial development in the Lake Zone, describing it as an important opportunity for residents of Kagera and neighbouring regions.

Minister Ndejembi also instructed TANESCO and the contractor to provide employment opportunities to residents in project areas within the districts of Ngara, Karagwe, and Missenyi so they can benefit economically and commercially from the project.

TANESCO Executive Director, Mr. Lazaro Twange, said the project would improve the reliability of electricity supply and stimulate economic activities in the Kagera Region.

“TANESCO has put in place plans to ensure that this project is completed on time and to the required standards,” Mr. Twange said.