Dar es Salaam, Tanzania| President Samia Suluhu Hassan has outlined Tanzania’s strategic plans to leverage its geographical location as a crucial hub for connecting electricity networks across Eastern and Southern Africa.
This initiative aims to facilitate seamless electricity trade between the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP) and the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP), linking energy supplies from South Africa to Egypt.
The President shared this vision during her address at the ongoing Energy Conference of African Heads of State, known as “Mission 300,” held at the Julius Nyerere International Conference Center (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam on January 28.
Speaking to an audience of African leaders, policymakers, and energy experts, President Samia emphasized Tanzania’s proactive role in building cross-border electricity infrastructure to enhance regional energy cooperation.
“We have already established electricity connections with Burundi, Kenya, and Rwanda,” she noted.
“Currently, efforts are underway to connect our electricity infrastructure with Zambia and Uganda. This network will enable energy trade between the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) regions.”
The President also highlighted Tanzania’s energy surplus as a key advantage in the country’s push to become a regional electricity exporter.
“As of November 2024, Tanzania’s electricity demand stood at 1,888.72 MW, while our production capacity reached 3,431.20 MW. This surplus presents a significant opportunity for Tanzania to sell electricity to neighboring countries,” she explained.
The development of inter-regional energy trade is expected to boost economic integration and stability, ensuring reliable and affordable electricity access across the continent.
By acting as a conduit between two major power pools, Tanzania is positioning itself as a critical player in Africa’s energy sector.
The “Mission 300” conference provides a platform for African leaders to discuss sustainable energy solutions and strategies to meet the continent’s growing electricity demand while addressing challenges such as energy poverty and climate change.
Tanzania’s bold steps in regional energy collaboration stand as a model for advancing the continent’s energy security and economic growth.
President Samia’s remarks underscore the importance of coordinated regional efforts to harness Africa’s vast energy potential, fostering development and innovation across borders.