Tanzania's energy infrastructure 'needs to be developed'

25 February 2011

Improving the energy infrastructure of Tanzania remains the biggest single challenge facing the nation.

This is according to energy and mineral resources minister William Ngeleja, who noted residents in the country need to have access to affordable levels of electricity, local paper the Guardian reports.

Appearing at the 13th Eastern Africa Power Pool Steering Committee and Donor Conference, Mr Ngeleja observed the East African region is failing to offer enough power to the people.

"Only about 14 per cent of [Tanzania's] population has access to electricity," he added.

The politician remarked there are a number of projects in the pipeline that will improve the situation, with power generation expected to top 5,830MW by 2025.

Regional schemes that include cooperation with Zambia and Kenya are being discussed, Mr Ngeleja added, while other Nile Basin Initiative countries are also being considered.

It comes shortly after it was announced Tanzania's Country Assistance Strategy with the World Bank is in the process of being updated.
 

Category: Energy