Samia Suluhu Fires Entire Electricity Board Over Blackout

President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania has dissolved the entire board of the Tanzania Electricity Supply Company (Tanesco) on Thursday, responding to widespread dissatisfaction over frequent power outages that have left Tanzanians frustrated.

The power outages plaguing the nation are a consequence of power rationing, driven by reduced water levels in dams and ongoing repairs to power lines. This has resulted in a substantial 400-megawatt shortfall, exacerbating the already challenging situation.

Notably, among those affected by the dissolution is Tanesco board chair Major General Paul Kisesa Simuli, who has been reassigned as Tanzania’s ambassador to Uganda. In his place, Dr. Rhimo Nyanzaho, the director of business at Azania Bank, has been appointed to take over the crucial role.

This bold move by President Samia Suluhu reflects the urgency to address the power crisis that has impacted various sectors of Tanzanian society. The power outages have not only affected households but have also had a significant impact on businesses and essential services.

Drawing parallels with neighboring Kenya, which has also grappled with widespread power outages, President William Ruto has attributed the blackouts to faulty power lines.

The Kenyan government is actively working to rectify these issues to ensure a stable power supply. The severity of the situation is highlighted by the disruption of major installations, including the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

President Samia Suluhu’s decision to dissolve the Tanesco board underscores a commitment to address the root causes of the power crisis and implement strategic changes to ensure a more reliable electricity supply for Tanzanians.

As Tanzania faces economic challenges exacerbated by the power shortages, the government’s response emphasizes the need for swift action to mitigate the impact on citizens and businesses alike.

Dr. Rhimo Nyanzaho’s appointment signals a shift towards expertise from the banking sector, suggesting a multidisciplinary approach to tackling the complex issues surrounding the electricity supply.

The power outage crisis in both Tanzania and Kenya serves as a regional reminder of the critical importance of maintaining and upgrading power infrastructure.

As countries in East Africa grapple with the consequences of climate change, such as reduced water levels affecting hydroelectric power generation, it becomes imperative for governments to invest in resilient and sustainable energy solutions.

President Samia Suluhu’s dissolution of the Tanesco board reflects a proactive approach to addressing the power crisis in Tanzania.

The appointment of Dr. Rhimo Nyanzaho and the parallel challenges faced by Kenya underscore the regional nature of the issue, calling for collaborative efforts and strategic interventions to secure a stable and sustainable energy future for East Africa.