CCM presidential candidate, Samia Suluhu Hassan has outlined a major energy roadmap that aims to raise Tanzania’s power generation capacity to 8,000 megawatts by 2030, driven by a diverse mix of renewable and conventional sources, including wind and geothermal.

Speaking at a campaign rally held on Sunday, 7 September at Samora Stadium in Iringa Municipality, Samia if re-elected, energy development remains at the heart of her vision for a prosperous Tanzania, as it will serve as the foundation for industrialisation, economic growth and improved livelihoods.

“Tanzania has already made significant strides. In 2020, our installed capacity stood at 1,600 megawatts. By 2025, we had reached 4,000 megawatts. The next phase is to double this capacity again, by harnessing our vast natural endowments in hydro, wind, solar and geothermal,” she said.

She noted that the Southern Highlands, including Iringa, are strategically positioned to benefit from geothermal and wind power development, with ongoing surveys and investments preparing the ground for large-scale projects. “We are laying a strong foundation to ensure that electricity becomes the main driver and catalyst of our country’s development,” she emphasised.

Beyond generation, Samia highlighted major progress in rural electrification, pointing to Iringa as an example. She said her government had fulfilled its pledge to extend electricity infrastructure to 360 villages in the region and beyond. Work has since expanded into smaller sub-villages, with many already connected.

In Iringa Municipality alone, she revealed, electricity services have been delivered to 189 out of 192 neighbourhoods, with contractors working to complete the remaining three. “Our mission is not only to light up homes but also to power businesses, schools, hospitals and industries,” she explained.

The CCM candidate underscored that while expanding access was a priority, increasing generation capacity remained crucial to ensure supply keeps pace with the country’s growing demand. She stressed that reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity would continue to be the cornerstone of her administration’s economic agenda.

Her remarks come as the government intensifies investment in renewable energy projects, part of a broader strategy to diversify sources, cut costs and reduce dependency on hydropower during drought seasons. The plan also aligns with regional ambitions for energy trade and cross-border power pooling.

Samia appealed to Iringa residents to renew their trust in CCM by voting for her in the forthcoming elections, assuring them that her administration would continue to deliver on energy and infrastructure, while broadening economic opportunities.