Artumas to export power to Kenya

In connection to my earlier posting, there is sufficient power for more than 10% of Tanzania's population, and more sources of electricity will be developed. At the m0ment it may seem interesting to export for earning foreign currency. However, the gas reserves should also contribute to the development of the country through increasing energy access for the rest of 90% of the population who dont have access to electricity.

Artumas to export power to Kenya

Correspondent, Mtwara Daily News; Friday,February 23, 2007 @00:04

KENYA has shown interest to buy surplus electricity to be produced by the Artumas Company from its installations at Mnazi Bay in Mtwara Region, the Minister for Planning Economy and Empowerment, Dr Juma Ngasongwa, said here yesterday. Speaking to journalists and Mtwara Region officials after touring the installations, Dr Ngasongwa said the project would generate power that was enough for various small and medium industries in Lindi and Mtwara regions, as well as 300 mega watts for export to neighbouring Kenya. The minister said export of energy would not only earn the country foreign exchange, but boost the economy. He, however, cautioned the firm on export of gas, saying instead the value added products like fertilizer and electricity could be sold abroad to earn the country more money. ‘‘I am informed there are many countries and foreign firms that have shown interest in buying gas from Mnazi Bay. It is not a bad idea, but you will earn more from selling value added products,’’ he stressed. Giving an example, he said, Artumas could sell gas to South African chemical and fertilizer manufacturers who would in turn export their products to Tanzania and elsewhere. ‘‘Why can’t we make those fertilizers for our own consumption and export the surplus,’’ he asked?