Zanzibar signs a major deal to brighten Stone Town's future!
In a significant move, the Zanzibar Electricity Corporation (Zeco) has inked a $17.2 million agreement with Central Electricals International Limited to enhance the power supply in the heart of Unguja, specifically targeting the iconic Stone Town. This ambitious project aims to bring about a substantial improvement in the region's electricity infrastructure.
But here's the exciting part: this initiative is just one piece of a larger puzzle. Zeco's Director General, Haji Haji, revealed that the project is part of a grand plan to modernize Stone Town's infrastructure. The plan includes the construction of two substations, which will serve as the backbone for receiving and distributing electricity, and the installation of new transmission lines.
And this is where it gets even more impressive. The existing electricity distribution lines in Zanzibar town operate at 11 kilovolts, but the project will upgrade the system to accommodate a more robust 33 kilovolts within the urban area. This upgrade will undoubtedly enhance the reliability and capacity of the power supply.
The Permanent Secretary in the Zanzibar Ministry of Water, Energy and Minerals, Mr. Joseph Kilangi, emphasized the importance of this project in rehabilitating and fortifying the town's electricity infrastructure. He urged ministry officials to closely monitor the contractors to ensure timely project completion.
Mr. Kilangi also encouraged the contracted company to excel in their performance, hinting at future opportunities for local firms in electricity projects. This statement raises an intriguing question: Could this project be a turning point for local businesses, potentially reducing the reliance on foreign companies?
Central Electricals International Limited's Projects Director, Mr. Hafeez Thawer, assured the government of their commitment to excellence. He also confirmed that local Zanzibaris would be involved in the project, which is part of the broader Zanzibar Energy Sector Transformation and Electricity Access Project (ZESTA). ZESTA includes the development of solar power facilities and high-voltage transmission lines, further diversifying the region's energy sources.
This deal promises a brighter future for Stone Town, but will it live up to its potential?
