Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Dissolves Electricity Board Due to Persistent Power Outages

On Thursday, President Samia Suluhu Hassan took the decision to disband the entire board of the Tanzania Electricity Supply Company (Tanesco) in response to widespread dissatisfaction among Tanzanians caused by frequent power outages.

The interruptions stem from power rationing in Tanzania, attributed to lower water levels in dams and ongoing repairs to power lines, resulting in a significant deficit of 400 megawatts.

Major General Paul Kisesa Simuli, the current Tanesco board chair, is one of those reassigned, now serving as Tanzania’s ambassador to Uganda.

Dr. Rhimo Nyanzaho, previously the director of business at Azania bank, has been designated to take over Simuli’s position.

Similar to Tanzania’s situation, Kenya has also faced widespread power outages recently.

President William Ruto attributed these blackouts to malfunctioning power lines, assuring the public that his administration is actively working to address and maintain the infrastructure.

Notably, the power cuts have impacted critical facilities, including the bustling Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).