Joseph Isangura
Tanzania is taking a major step to improve its electricity supply by importing power from Ethiopia through Kenya, a move expected to save the country around TSh 32 billion every year.
This initiative is also aimed at reducing power shortages and stabilizing electricity distribution, especially in the Northern Zone.
The country’s electricity production is largely concentrated in the southeastern regions, meaning power has to travel long distances to reach the north. This has led to high energy losses, costing the nation billions of shillings annually. To solve this problem, Tanzania will now tap into Ethiopia’s power supply, which will be transmitted through Kenya’s national grid.
This plan has been made possible by the newly completed 400kV Kenya-Tanzania interconnector, a project designed to strengthen power trade between the two nations. The 510-kilometer transmission line links Isinya in Kenya to Singida in Tanzania, passing through key substations in Arusha and Singida. This infrastructure allows electricity to flow seamlessly between countries, making it easier for Tanzania to access cheaper and more reliable power.
For Tanzania, the benefits are clear. By reducing transmission losses, the country stands to save a significant amount of money, which can be directed toward other development projects. Additionally, a more stable electricity supply means businesses and households in the Northern Zone will experience fewer blackouts, creating a better environment for economic growth.
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This development is also part of a larger vision for energy cooperation in East Africa. The interconnector is a key component of the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP), a regional initiative bringing together 13 countries to create a shared electricity market. This collaboration allows countries to trade power efficiently, ensuring that energy is distributed where it’s needed most.
Tanzania’s decision to import electricity from Ethiopia is not entirely new— the country has previously purchased power from Zambia, Uganda, and Kenya to support border regions like Rukwa, Kagera, and Tanga. However, this latest arrangement is expected to have a more significant impact by addressing long-standing power challenges in the north.
A steady and affordable power supply is a crucial factor in economic development, and by making this strategic move, Tanzania is positioning itself for a more stable and prosperous future.
