Rajeshwar Prasad
IN October 2023, India and Tanzania marked a significant milestone in their longstanding relationship when Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan visited India. Her visit culminated in the signing of six key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and the launch of a five-year strategic roadmap for cooperation. These agreements highlight the increasing role India is playing in Tanzania’s economic development, particularly in infrastructure projects like power transmission, railways, and roads.
As these projects unfold, they promise not only to enhance Tanzania’s connectivity but also to support its broader economic goals of industrialisation and regional integration.
Power grid expansion
One of the most crucial infrastructure needs for any developing nation is reliable energy. In Tanzania, the expansion of the power grid has been a pressing priority, particularly as the country continues to industrialise.
Indian companies, with their vast experience in large-scale energy projects, have stepped up to support this need. Larsen & Toubro (L&T), a major player in India’s infrastructure sector, is leading efforts in Tanzania’s power transmission projects.
Collaborating with the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO) and Gridworks, L&T is playing a critical role in the development of the North-East Grid, a project that aims to strengthen Tanzania’s electricity distribution system and increase access to reliable power across the country.
While power infrastructure is critical, so too are the transportation networks that move people and goods across the country. Tanzania has embarked on an ambitious plan to expand its railways and roadways, with Indian companies poised to play a significant role.
The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project is one of the country’s flagship initiatives, aimed at improving connectivity between major cities like Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, and Mwanza. When completed, this railway will also link Tanzania with its landlocked neighbours, such as Rwanda, Burundi, and Uganda, enhancing regional trade and economic cooperation. India’s experience in large-scale railway infrastructure development makes it a key partner for Tanzania’s SGR projects.
In addition to the railways, Indian companies have been involved in road construction projects aimed at improving mobility within Tanzania. These road networks are essential for connecting rural areas with urban centers, facilitating the flow of goods and services, and promoting economic growth in remote regions.
Impact on people’s lives
While the technical aspects of infrastructure development are essential, the true impact of these projects lies in how they improve the daily lives of Tanzanians. The expansion of the power grid, for example, will bring electricity to rural areas that have long been underserved, providing local businesses with the power they need to grow and creating new opportunities for employment. Improved transportation networks will reduce travel times and lower the cost of transporting goods, making it easier for farmers and small business owners to bring their products to market.
In Dar es Salaam, the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, which has been partially implemented with support from international partners like India, is already transforming the daily commute for thousands of Tanzanians.
The infrastructure projects that India and Tanzania are working on together are not just about roads, railways, or power lines; they are about building a future where Tanzania can fully realise its economic potential. As Tanzania continues to invest in infrastructure, its partnership with India will be key to ensuring that these projects are completed on time and within budget. The involvement of Indian companies brings not only technical expertise but also a commitment to the long-term success of Tanzania’s development goals.
Building brighter future
The collaboration between India and Tanzania is a shining example of how nations can work together to build a brighter future. By focusing on critical infrastructure projects like power transmission, railways, and roads, both countries are laying the groundwork for long-term economic growth and regional integration.
As these projects move forward, they will not only transform Tanzania’s physical landscape but also empower its people by providing them with the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.
