Samia calls for electricity-driven economic growth in Katavi

Dar es Salaam. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has encouraged the residents of Katavi region to utilize electricity as a catalyst for economic benefits and development.

She made these remarks today, July 13, on a tour of Katavi region.

Speaking to the residents in the Mlele district, President Hassan said that electricity is a necessity for both personal and industrial activities.

"That's why in the CCM’s 2020 election manifesto, we promised to ensure that the country produces sufficient electricity to meet economic needs and to complete the distribution of electricity to all villages and remote areas," she said.

However, President Hassan added that by September, the project will enable Katavi region to use the national grid and move away from generators that have been costing approximately more than Sh2 billion.

"But apart from the construction of that station, I was shown how TANESCO is working to build lines that will receive electricity from the main station in Ubungo and also distribute electricity to other areas," she said.

President Hassan also mentioned three stations that are under construction and will be used to distribute electricity, including Inyonga, Sikonge, and Mpanda.

"There is that station in Inyonga, but it will receive electricity from Sikonge and then Inyonga will send it to Mpanda. Three such stations are being built," she continued.

Despite the project costing approximately Sh48 billion and Sh116 billion for the transmission and distribution lines, President Hassan urged the residents to use electricity for economic benefits.

"Those capable of starting a salon for hair cutting using electricity should proceed with it. Those skilled in welding and window fabrication should also pursue these opportunities. Anyone capable of leveraging electricity for economic gain should seize the opportunity," stated President Hassan.

She also urged the ministry of Energy and TANESCO to ensure the project is completed on time.

"Besides ensuring a reliable electricity supply on the grid, there is also the critical task of distributing and connecting electricity to institutions and even people's homes. Therefore, TANESCO should prepare diligently for the responsibility of facilitating electricity distribution and connections," she explained.

However, President Hassan further urged the residents of the region to ensure they pay for the electricity they use because electricity is a service and not a business.

"It is a service and therefore, we must pay for it to ensure its continuous availability. This payment supports the operational efficiency of our stations, ensures safe maintenance of transmission routes, and sustains uninterrupted electricity supply," she shared.

The President also praised the residents of the Katavi region for consenting to the passage of electricity through their area, assuring them that compensation would be provided later.

The President added that the government is continuing with the construction of roads including Kibaoni junction to Mlele (50 kilometres), Vikonge to Ruhafwe (25 kilometres), Ruhafwe to Mishamo (37 kilometres), and Kagwira-Karema (110 kilometres) to tarmac level.

However, she urged the residents of the region to maintain and protect those projects.