Tanzania: Stop bickering, solve power crisis once and for all

The problem of electricity in this country has become a tired story. In fact wananchi are tired of complaining to such an extent that they are left without a choice but to count their losses as the powers that be continue failing to find a lasting solution to the problem.

Reports that a number of firms have closed shop due to the critical shortage of electricity that saw Tanesco engaging in unrealistically long load-shedding timetables is unfortunate though expected. It is no longer news that the power problem is crippling the economy and might be blamed for the current economic meltdown.

The Director of Policies and Research with the Confederation of Tanzania Industries (CTI), Hussein Kamote, addressing a news conference last week, revealed that at least six major firms had shut down due to power shortage. He warned that in the absence of an urgent solution, more industries will close down.

This came at a time when Tanesco received 100mw gas turbine units that will be installed at the Ubungo Power Station in Dar es Salaam to boost power output. Though this seemingly is a step towards the right direction in as far as solving the problem is concerned, more serious measures need to be taken to address the situation. The turbines that were bought are not capable of ending the problem hence more steps are needed.

The problem with the powers that be is that they are good at promising the public that the problem will be solved but nothing, that is being done, shows any indication that their promises will be fulfilled. The problems and losses caused by the shortage of electricity are not only well known but are fast becoming part and parcel of wananchi's lives.

Many people through out this country are small scale businesspeople and in most cases rely on electricity for their businesses. It goes without saying that their families are facing a difficult time as they cannot put something on the table. They are simply running at a loss.

The country is fast approaching a stage where the economy will be on its knees, that is if the current situation is not addressed. The power shortage has in fact become an embarrassment to the nation after last week's blunder that occurred at the National Stadium during the Kagame Cup finals when ambulance lights were used as a source of light to facilitate the presentation of medals and the trophy to players.

It's a shame that the situation has come to such levels and the time of bickering is long gone. The time to act is now and those who can't provide the much needed answers should step aside and let fresh brains run the sector. The minister concerned and his team should make sure urgent measures are taken before the economy collapses.