Tanzania Electricity Corporation is set to replace fragile electricity poles with stronger concrete and steel alternatives as part of efforts to improve the reliability of the country’s power infrastructure.
The announcement was made by Hon. Salome Makamba during a parliamentary session in Dodoma while responding to concerns raised by Hon. Sara Msafiri Ally regarding the recurring collapse of electric poles in Mgeta.
According to Hon. Makamba, the government has acknowledged the persistent problem of falling poles in some parts of Mgeta, attributing the situation to factors such as heavy rainfall, weak soil conditions, and soil erosion.
She explained that the government, through TANESCO, will strengthen electricity infrastructure by replacing vulnerable wooden poles in high-risk areas with more durable concrete and steel poles, while also reinforcing foundations in locations with soft soil.
The Deputy Minister further stated that TANESCO continues to carry out routine inspections of electricity infrastructure to identify faults early and address emerging challenges promptly.
She disclosed that the Ministry of Energy has allocated a special budget to support the replacement of wooden poles, particularly in wet areas and communities with intense human activity.
Hon. Makamba also urged the public to avoid poor land-use practices, including indiscriminate bush burning and uncontrolled farm fires, which she said have contributed to damage to electricity infrastructure in several communities.