Tanzania has formally brought the landmark Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP) into operation. This marked a major milestone in the country’s efforts to strengthen electricity generation, accelerate industrial development, and advance long-term economic growth.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan officiated the inauguration ceremony, which was joined by Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly. This ceremony highlighted the strong cooperation between Tanzania and Egypt in delivering one of Africa’s largest hydroelectric projects.
Kituo cha Kuzalisha Umeme cha Julius Nyerere (JNHPP), Rufiji, Pwani
Shukrani kwa Mwenyezi Mungu Mtukufu kwa kutuwezesha kushuhudia tukio hili la kihistoria kwa Taifa letu. Hii ni hatua ya kujivunia katika safari yetu ya kuendelea kufanya kazi ya kujikomboa kiuchumi, ili kuiishi… pic.twitter.com/Y06z1j2LPR
— Samia Suluhu (@SuluhuSamia) August 22, 2026
Located in the Rufiji region of Pwani, the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project has an installed generation capacity of 2,115 megawatts. The facility consists of nine turbines, each capable of producing 235 megawatts. This makes it Tanzania’s largest single source of electricity and one of the most significant hydroelectric installations on the African continent.
The project was constructed by two Egyptian companies, Arab Contractors and Elsewedy Electric. Beyond its substantial electricity-generating capacity, the development is expected to play a central role in supporting Tanzania’s growing demand for reliable and affordable power.
The dam stands approx. 131 metres high and has created a reservoir capable of storing around 34 billion cubic metres of water. The vast infrastructure of the project is expected to contribute to improved energy security while supporting industrialization, investment, and broader economic development across the country.
🇹🇿 La Tanzanie avance à grands pas dans le secteur de l’énergie !
Voici les 9 turbines de la centrale hydroélectrique Julius Nyerere (JNHPP), à Rufiji, dans la région de Pwani. ⚡️
Chaque turbine produit 235 MW, soit une capacité totale de 2 115 MW pour l’ensemble de la… https://t.co/oK679SOueu pic.twitter.com/DIKr0ZX5Ja
— Benjamin Umba (@benjimk) August 23, 2026
President Hassan described the inauguration as a historic achievement for Tanzania. He said that it is a significant step in the nation’s continued journey towards economic liberation. She expressed gratitude for the successful completion of the project and emphasized its importance in fulfilling the aspirations of Tanzania’s founding leaders.
Commissioning of the JNHPP represents years of planning and construction. It clearly signals a new chapter for Tanzania’s energy sector. The project is expected to significantly expand the country’s electricity supply and provide a foundation for future economic transformation with its 2,115MW capacity now formally brought into operation.
The Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project situated in Tanzania has been formally brought into operation, with President Samia Suluhu Hassan together with Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly present at the opening ceremony.
Constructed by the Egyptian firms Arab Contractors and… pic.twitter.com/OpHrycQrDd
— African Hub (@AfricanHub_) August 22, 2026
As Tanzania celebrates the completion and launch of this major national project, the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project stands as a symbol of infrastructure development. It represents regional cooperation and the country’s ambitions to build a stronger and more energy-secure future.
President Hassan congratulated the people of Tanzania and described the occasion as a milestone for the nation and a moment of pride in its ongoing pursuit of development and economic independence.