Tanzania expands energy infrastructure in Rukwa and Katavi regions

Tanzania is advancing significant power infrastructure projects in the Rukwa and Katavi regions to stabilize the national grid and boost economic activity.

In Rukwa, the Malangali substation project is 85.17% complete. Built by the Chinese company TBEA at a cost of 161.9 billion shillings, the facility will handle voltages from 400kV down to 33kV. Testing is scheduled to begin in mid-November 2026, with full completion expected by November 2026. Deputy Energy Minister Salome Makamba noted that 90% of the workforce on this project consists of Tanzanians.

In Katavi, TANESCO plans to increase electricity capacity in Mpanda to 80 megawatts by December 1, 2026. This will be achieved through the installation of a new 150 MVA transformer. The upgrade is designed to meet the current peak demand of 53 to 60 megawatts, providing a surplus of approximately 20 megawatts to support local business, industry, and social services.