Village in Mtwara to get electricity after 50 years without

Nanyumbu. Nakopi residents in Nanyumbu District, Mtwara Region, who have lived without electricity for over 56 years, are now accessing reliable power, thanks to Power Corner Tanzania Limited, which has connected them to a solar mini-grid. 

Previously, residents were forced to spend Sh6, 000 on bus fare to travel about 6 kilometres to Mangaka town in the district to access services at a stationary.

To address power shortage, the company last year implemented a mega solar power project capable of generating at least 30 kilowatt (kW).

With reliable power, residents now engage in production activities including welding, entrepreneurship and carpentry.

The completion of the solar power project has also helped with delivery of healthcare services in the village.

Speaking to The Citizen, Nakopi Village resident Rashid Hashim revealed that a majority of villagers were previously forced to travel on foot to the small town of Mangaka to access various services.

“Our living standards have improved tremendously. We are now earning sufficient income through our engagement in production activities,” he said.

Another resident, Mr Bakari Issa said in tapping the opportunity he has opened a retail shop to earn sufficient income.

“The good thing is, there are no power cuts.. I am running my businesses without interruption. I also use power for domestic purposes,” he said.

For his part, the company’s director, Mr Mpembe Ngwisa, said the solar power project that was launched during this year’s Uhuru Torch race provided a permanent power solution to villagers.