Introduction:
A delegation composed of the Tanesco Board of Directors recently visited the 80MW Regional Rusumo Falls Hydroelectric Plant (RRFHP), a plant owned by Burundi, Rwanda and Tanzania via the Company Rusumo Power Company Ltd (RPCL).
This is a significant step towards enhancing regional energy cooperation and meeting the East Africa’s growing electricity demands. The visit underscores the project's pivotal role in the shared energy future of Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi. The following table shows the name and position of the team.
|
S/N |
Name |
Position |
|
1 |
Amb. Zuhura A. Bundala |
Vice Chairperson - TANESCO Board of Directors |
|
2 |
Prof. Idrisa S. Kikula |
Board Member |
|
3 |
Eng. Isaac A. Chanji |
Board Member |
|
4 |
Sr. Dr. Hellen A. Bandiho |
Board Member |
|
5 |
Dr. Lucy M. Mboma |
Board Member |
|
6 |
Eng. Costa Rubagumya |
Deputy Managing Director – Generation |
|
7 |
Adv. Sundi Mahalu |
Director Legal Services |
|
8 |
Eng. Gaspar Msigwa |
Zonal Director – Lake Zone |
|
9 |
Rashid Mohamed Makwaia |
Legal Officer |
|
10 |
Wemael Emmanuel Msuya |
Legal Officer |
|
11 |
Agnes Njaala |
Public Relations Officer |
|
12 |
Nurdin Killo |
Public Relations Officer |
1. Project Overview:
The 80 MW Regional Rusumo Regional Falls Hydroelectric Plant under RPCL is a jointly owned plant owned by Burundi, Rwanda and Tanzania. It harnesses the hydropower potential of the Kagera and Ruvubu Rivers. The plant is at testing phase and currently evacuating up to 80 megawatts of electricity, to be equally shared among the three Countries, and therefore significantly contributing to regional energy security and development.
2. Highlights of the Visit:
• Site Tour and Briefings: The Tanesco delegation toured critical sections of the RRFHP, including the dam site, power house, and switchyard infrastructure. The guests received comprehensive briefings on the project's technical aspects, progress, and expected outcomes.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Meetings were held with Management, engineers, and representatives of RPCL staff. These discussions focused on the project's impact, operational challenges, and the cooperative efforts required to ensure its success.
• Progress Review: The delegation reviewed the current status of the project, noting significant milestones such as the near total completion of major construction activities and the installation of key equipment. The TANESCO Board Members commended the project's adherence to its timeline and budget.
3. Significance of the Visit: The visit by Tanesco Board Directors highlights the importance of the RRFHP in Tanzania's energy strategy. It demonstrates the Board's commitment to overseeing and supporting key projects that enhance regional cooperation and energy sustainability.
4. Future Prospects: Upon total completion, the RRFHP is expected to:
• Enhance Energy Security: Provide a reliable and renewable source of electricity, reducing dependency on non-renewable energy sources.
• Foster Regional Integration: Strengthen economic and political ties between Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi through shared infrastructure and resources.
• Promote Sustainable Development: Contribute to environmental conservation by utilizing hydropower, a clean energy source, thereby reducing carbon emissions.
Conclusion: The Tanesco Board Directors' visit to the Rusumo Regional Falls Hydroelectric Plant marks a significant milestone in the region's quest for energy security and sustainability. This collaborative effort promises to bring substantial benefits to Burundi, Rwanda and Tanzania, fostering a brighter and more sustainable future for the region.
The RPCL plant Manager presents the overview of the Regional Rusumo Falls Hydroelectric Project to the visitors
Visit to Powerhouse; control room