Tanzania's Electricity Prices Remain Unchanged for a Decade

DODOMA: THE Tanzanian government has continued to ensure that electricity usage costs for its citizens do not increase for a period of 10 years starting from 2016, despite rising prices of electrical equipment such as ladders, cables, and meters. Speaking on January 21, 2026, in Dodoma during the second meeting between the Ministry of Energy, its institutions, and the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy and Minerals, the Minister for Energy, Hon. Deogratius Ndejembi, said the measure is aimed at ensuring that every citizen has access to affordable electricity services. He said the national electricity connection rate has reached 52 percent, while the Sixth Phase Government has set a target of reaching 75 percent by 2030. This target is being implemented through the Energy Compact signed in January 2025 during the African Heads of State Summit. Addressing the rollout of smart meters, Minister Ndejembi said the installation of the meters is ongoing nationwide and will enable consumers to access electricity immediately after purchasing tokens without the need for an additional Customer Interface Unit (CIU). This step is expected to reduce challenges experienced under the previous system. ALSO READ: Electricity prices remain the same for 10 years Regarding access to national grid electricity in Rukwa Region, the minister said the construction of a 400-kilovolt power transmission line is ongoing through contractor TBEA and will enable the region to receive reliable and stable electricity supply. He also mentioned a project to strengthen electricity access in the regions of Mtwara, Lindi, Tabora, and Simiyu, which is being implemented by contractor Kalpataru, as part of the government’s efforts to improve electricity supply nationwide. Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy and Minerals, Hon. Subira Mgalu, commended the government, through the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) and the Rural Energy Agency (REA), for the significant work being done to ensure citizens have access to reliable and sustainable electricity.