Zanzibar power project advances with new submarine cable plan

Thursday 16th October 2025

by inAfrika Newsroom

Zanzibar power project planning advanced on Thursday as authorities outlined a high-capacity submarine cable from mainland Tanzania and a package of grid upgrades. The Zanzibar power project is designed to cut outages, stabilize voltage and support the islands’ tourism, manufacturing and services growth.

Officials said the plan features a modern undersea link paired with new substations and switching gear on Unguja and Pemba. Moreover, the design includes real-time monitoring and protection systems to isolate faults and speed restoration. Marine surveys and environmental permitting are already under way.

Demand has climbed with new hotels, industrial estates and population growth. Therefore, businesses have pushed for a stronger grid that can handle peak loads and scheduled maintenance without resorting to load-shedding. Hoteliers said reliable power is now a baseline expectation in the high-end market.

The utility’s managers said the project will also reduce reliance on backup generators. In addition, they expect savings on diesel and maintenance to improve the islands’ competitiveness. They plan to sequence works so that existing lines remain available while crews install new assets.

On financing, authorities indicated a blend of public funds, commercial debt and development-partner support. However, they did not disclose final figures. Banks active in Tanzanian infrastructure have signaled interest where revenue backstops and clear demand exist.

Environmental safeguards feature prominently. Consequently, the project team is mapping cable routes to avoid sensitive sea-grass and coral habitats. It is also consulting fishing communities on landing sites and trenching windows. Officials said a grievance mechanism will handle local concerns throughout construction.

The plan envisages future integration of renewable generation. As a result, the upgraded grid will be ready to absorb utility-scale solar and wind as costs fall. Storage options remain under review to smooth variability and protect power quality.

Procurement milestones will determine the build schedule. In the meantime, engineers will complete detailed design, seabed studies and geotechnical work. Once contracts are awarded, crews will stage cable, lay sections in weather windows and test systems before commissioning.