Tanzania-Zambia Power Line Nears Completion
The 618-kilometer transmission project reaches 92 percent completion as it eyes a December 2026 finish.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Utilities
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Tanzania has officially reported that its major power line project connecting the country to Zambia is now 92 percent complete. This massive infrastructure effort aims to link national grids and significantly expand electricity trade across East and Southern Africa.
Why it matters
The new transmission line is critical for stabilizing the Zambian hydropower grid and supporting regional industrial ambitions. Reliable electricity access is foundational to Zambia's strategic goal of tripling its copper production capacity by 2031.
The project spans 618 kilometers with a 500 million euro budget for the Tanzanian section and a 292 million US dollar grant package for Zambia. Currently, the Rukwa region receives only 16 megawatts of power despite a requirement of 30 megawatts.
The players
Agence Française de Développement (AFD)
This French development agency serves as the lead project partner overseeing the cross-border infrastructure initiative.
The details
The transmission line stretches from Iringa to Malangali, while the Nkangamo substation has reached 83 percent completion. Government officials are actively supervising contractors to ensure that high-voltage distribution meets required technical standards.
Timeline
December 2020: EU fact sheet established the 500 million euro project budget.
11 April 2025: The grant package for the Zambian side of the project was launched.
March 2026: Project progress reached the 76 percent mark.
26 May 2026: Original commissioning date scheduled for the Tanzanian section.
December 2026: Expected completion date for the entire transmission line project.
Market Landscape
This project aligns with regional efforts to create a unified energy market across the African continent to reduce reliance on isolated national grids. By integrating Tanzania and Zambia, the initiative strengthens the competitive environment for regional electricity exporters and industrial manufacturers.
The completed power line will provide the Rukwa region with its necessary 30 megawatts of capacity, effectively doubling the currently available 16 megawatts. This ensures consistent electrical service for local residents and businesses that have previously dealt with power deficits.
The takeaway
Reliable high-voltage power infrastructure is essential for long-term economic growth and industrial scaling in developing energy markets. The completion of this line demonstrates the value of international cooperation in bridging the gap between local power demand and supply.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest infrastructure developments in the Utilities section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Rio Times.
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