Energy Minister presses Tanesco for faster, more innovative delivery

By Business Insider Reporter, Dodoma

The Minister for Energy, Deogratius Ndejembi, has commended the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (Tanesco) for what he described as “major and visible reforms” in the delivery of electricity services nationwide – reforms he says are restoring public confidence and unlocking new economic opportunities across the country.

Speaking in Dodoma on November 22, 2025 during a strategic performance review with the utility’s leadership, Ndejembi said Tanesco’s progress is a critical pillar in the government’s broader ambition to expand energy access and stimulate inclusive economic growth. The meeting brought together senior Tanesco executives, regional and district managers and representatives from the Ministry of Energy.

The Minister used the platform to call for even greater urgency and innovation in connecting new customers, particularly under the government’s flagship Mission 300 Strategic Plan, which aims to accelerate electrification and strengthen service delivery.

“We must build on the momentum already created,” he said. “Tanesco has done commendable work, but the demand for electricity is rising and expectations are even higher. We need to expand our creativity and adopt better methods to connect households and businesses more quickly. Working closely with our partners, I am confident we can reach our target of 1.7 million new connections annually.”

Mr. Ndejembi also issued a stern warning to contractors lagging behind schedule or failing to meet performance standards, stressing that legal action will be taken against any firm that undermines the national electrification agenda.

“It is essential that contractors align themselves with the pace and vision of the government. Anyone who is negligent or unable to meet required standards will face the full force of the law,” he said.

Deputy Minister for Energy, Salome Makamba, used the meeting to pay tribute to President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her sustained investment in energy infrastructure. She noted that the President’s commitment has been instrumental in extending electricity access to both urban and rural areas, and in improving reliability across the national grid.

Reinforcing this point, Energy Permanent Secretary Felchesmi Mramba highlighted Tanesco’s adherence to international project-execution standards, adding that the utility’s performance has increasingly positioned Tanzania as a point of reference for neighbouring countries undertaking major power projects.

Tanesco’s Board of Directors has also expressed confidence in the reforms. Vice-Chairperson Ambassador Zuhura Bundala praised the dedication and patriotism of Tanesco staff, emphasising that the Board will continue strengthening governance and operational oversight to ensure alignment with national energy goals.

Tanesco Managing Director, Lazaro Twange, outlined some of the key milestones expected over the next 100 days as part of the government’s rapid-delivery initiative. Among them is the near-completion of the Kishapu solar power project, currently at 83 per cent progress – one of the country’s most important renewable-energy developments.

“We are working to ensure that several priority projects reach completion within this period,” Twange said. “Our focus remains on expanding access and supporting the national target of 1.7 million new customer connections per year.” The meeting marks another step in the government’s push to modernise Tanzania’s energy sector, improve service delivery, and create an enabling environment for industry, investment and long-term economic transformation.