Zanzibar Power Project Aims to Revitalize Tourism Industry
On Sunday, July 21, 2024, Zanzibar’s electricity sector witnessed a significant development with the signing of contracts aimed at advancing the region’s power infrastructure. Haji Juma Haji, General Manager of the Zanzibar Electricity Corporation (Zeco), and Miao Xiaonan, Engineering Manager at China’s Zhonglian Technology (ZTT), exchanged documents marking the start of new power projects in Zanzibar.
Project Overview
The new project involves the construction of a 152-kilovolt power line stretching 99.9 kilometers across Unguja Island. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Water, Energy, and Minerals, in collaboration with Chinese companies Zhonglian Technology (ZTT) and Sieyuan, is designed to address existing electricity shortages in the region.
Economic and Sectoral Impact
At the contract signing ceremony, Minister of Water, Energy, and Minerals, Shaib Hassan Kaduara, emphasized the project’s potential to unlock economic opportunities and bolster the country’s economy, particularly within the tourism sector.
“For a country’s economy to grow and be sustainable, it must have reliable electricity infrastructure,” stated Minister Kaduara. He urged contractors to complete the project on schedule to resolve the power issues currently faced by Zanzibar’s residents.
Kaduara also called on Zeco employees to support the project to ensure its timely completion.
Project Goals and Execution
Joseph Kilangi, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Water, Energy, and Minerals, outlined the project’s objectives, which include addressing power shortages in specific areas and reducing energy losses. The project will involve the construction of a 152-kilovolt power line and the installation of substations in Makunduchi and Matemwe.
“This initiative will open up tourism routes in the Northern and Southern regions, reduce energy wastage, and install power poles for those in need,” Kilangi explained.
Kilangi also instructed residents who have already received compensation to vacate their properties and assured those awaiting compensation that they would receive it soon to facilitate the project’s progress.
Project Expectations and Timeline
Haji Juma Haji, General Manager of Zeco, highlighted that the signing of these contracts would revolutionize the electricity sector. He believes it will attract investment in medium-sized industries and contribute to job creation in the country.
He added that the project aims to encourage the use of electricity in various activities, including cooking, which would also contribute to environmental conservation.
Haji assured that Zeco is committed to completing the project on time and delivering benefits to users, aligning with the government’s objectives.
The two contracts are expected to be completed within one year.
