The village of Doda in Tanzania's Tanga region has undergone significant changes following the introduction of electricity by the Tanzania Rural Electrification Agency (REA) two years ago. Artisans, including Twalib Matata, have transitioned from using basic tools to modern machinery for processing Tanga stone. This shift has increased their income and expanded their market reach.
Twalib highlighted the impact of electricity on their business: "Electricity has helped our business to supply a wide range of clients." He also mentioned their involvement in a major contract for the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project, which was made possible by access to electricity.
The broader electrification efforts are part of the $550 million Tanzania Rural Electrification Expansion Program (TREEP), supported by the World Bank's International Development Association (IDA), the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program, and CIF’s Scaling up Renewable Energy Program. In Isunga village, Kwimba district, local business owner Jacob Daudi converted his grain warehouse into a rice mill powered by electricity since February 2023. This change reduced transportation costs and increased rice prices for local farmers.
Lameck Lubeja, a local farmer, noted: "We used to transport our paddy in groups of five farmers in order to share the cost which was rather high." The improved processing quality and reduced rejections have enhanced market value for their rice. Daudi added that profits have allowed expansion into more land and businesses.
In Kwimba, the Palu sunflower oil processing plant has revitalized sunflower farming since electrification in April 2023. Previously unprofitable due to high transportation costs, sunflower cultivation is now thriving with local processing facilities available. Gerald Mabula, a prominent farmer, expanded his operations significantly: "I feel I am now running a real business."
Mwasongwe Farms in Misungwi district faced challenges with unreliable power before grid electricity arrived in 2024. Manager Faraja Nyoni described past struggles with solar power inefficiencies and costly generators. The new reliable power source has extended working hours and increased productivity across various farm activities.
Nyoni shared personal benefits as well: "It has allowed me to pursue hobbies like baking and reading," highlighting improvements beyond just economic gains.