Contractors of power projects directed to establish own yards

Chato. Energy minister Medard Kalemani has directed power project contractors implementing rural energy projects in the country to establish own storage facilities to avoid excuses of lack of equipment during implementation of power connection.

The minister made the comment on Monday, September 16 at Kahumo Village in Chato District, where he officially switched on electricity.

“I’m directing you to establish you own yard facilities. For our part, we’ll inspect them to ensure they meet at least the minimum required safety standards,” Dr Kalemani said.

According to him, items that must be kept in the facilities include electrical cables, electric poles, transformers and Luku meters.

The minister also officiated the switching on of power at Magiri Village and advised residents not to use unauthorized technicians to tackle challenges related to electricity but those recognized by Tanesco.

He challenged villagers to ensure that they pay the amount needed for them to access power, including Sh27,000 for connection. He said that those who missed this opportunity may have to pay more as they will be connecting to the ordinary electricity.

Addressing a public meeting in Chato District, Dr Kalemani directed Rural Energy Agency officials to make sure that at least 10 households got connected to power on a daily basis in the project area.

The minister is touring Lake Zone regions including Mwanza, Mara and Simiyu to inspect implementation of power projects.