Rusumo electricity project unlocks economic potential

Dar es Salaam. The completion of the transboundary 80-megawatt Rusumo Hydropower Project in Ngara, Tanzania, not only promises a considerable increase in electricity supply but has also resulted in huge socioeconomic advantages for local communities, The Citizen has learnt.

Spearheaded by the over $10 million Local Area Development Programme (LADP) implemented in two phases, the project’s impact resonates deeply across various sectors, from healthcare to education and water, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of residents.

During a recent visit to Ngara, this paper witnessed that the collaborative efforts of stakeholders had been key in driving positive change and improving livelihoods for the district communities.

The Rusumo project commenced implementation in 2017, while the first phase of LADP community projects began in 2020 and concluded in 2021. Phase II is currently underway and is anticipated to be finalised by June 2024.

LAPD coordinator in Tanzania, Ms Irene Chalamila, expressed her satisfaction with the project’s outcomes, stating that the successful implementation of the programmes has ushered in a new era of development for Ngara District.

“Through collaborative efforts and strategic investments, we have witnessed tangible improvements in key areas that directly benefit our communities,” she said.

She revealed that Tanzania received nearly $5 million (estimated Sh11 billion) in funding in each phase, and the first phase involved 13 projects, all of which have been completed.

The LADP programme implemented the following sub-projects: the Rusumo Water Supply Project in Rusumo village with six water points in Ngoma sub-village; the rehabilitation of water systems in four villages (Mshikamano, Kasulo, Rwakalemela and Kasharazi); the construction of the Rusumo Health Centre; and the improvement of Lemela Folk Community Development College (FDC) through the rehabilitation of two workshops and the construction of playing grounds.

Others were the construction of Bukiriro Secondary School, the construction of Lukole Health Centre, the construction and rehabilitation of Rusumo Secondary School buildings, the construction of Rusumo dispensary in Kyenda Village, the construction of Mumiterama Secondary School, and the construction of Rusumo Primary School.

“The projects were carried out in collaboration with the community and were completed without any challenges,” she said.

“The construction of new schools and the rehabilitation of existing educational facilities have provided our children with better learning environments. Previously, access to education was hindered by inadequate infrastructure, but now we see a brighter future for the youth,” said Ms Chalamila.

Registered Nurse Irene Achieng from Rusumo Health Centre attested to the positive impact, remarking that the construction of the health centre has significantly increased access to quality healthcare services for the community members.

“We have seen a notable rise in patient visits, particularly among women and children, which underscores the vital role this facility plays in our healthcare delivery system,” she said.

Some parts of the community villages had spent countless hours fetching water from distant sources, often compromising our health and productivity.

In Benako ward, The Citizen spoke to some of the residents, including Mr Jonifas Daniel, who attested that the rehabilitation of water pumps in community taps had been life-changing.

“Previously, we struggled with unreliable access to clean water, but now, thanks to this innovation, we can enjoy a steady and safe water supply,” he said.

Chairperson of the Water Users Community in Benako Ward, Ms. Josephilda Kwela, also emphasised the transformative impact of water supply projects facilitated by the LAPD.

“Access to clean water has been a longstanding challenge for our community. Thanks to the rehabilitation efforts supported by the LADP, we now have reliable access to safe drinking water, improving our overall well-being and quality of life,” she said.

About Rusumo project

Currently finalised, the Rusumo Hydropower Plant is a joint venture between the governments of Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi and has brought together an investment of nearly $468 million.

Each of the three nations is set to receive a supply of 26.67 megawatts. The project is being implemented under the Nile Equatorial Lakes Subsidiary Action Program (NELSAP).

For Tanzania, this project is poised to be a significant boost to the national power grid, extending far beyond just meeting Tanzania’s energy demands but also catalysing the growth of various sectors, such as manufacturing, agriculture, and infrastructure.