Construction of a hydropower generation facility under at the Kikuletwa Campus of Arusha Technical College (ATC) is nearing completion, marking a major milestone in strengthening engineering training and clean energy production in Tanzania.
The facility, being developed under the East Africa Skills for Transformation and Regional Integration Project (EASTRIP) with funding from the World Bank and government of the United Republic of Tanzania, has now reached 84.88 percent completion
Once operational, the plant will generate electricity for the college while supplying surplus power to Tanzania’s national grid, helping reduce pressure on the country’s power supply while providing a practical training environment for engineering students.
The hydropower plant is expected to serve as a training facility, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in power generation systems, plant operations, maintenance, and energy management. This practical exposure is central to EASTRIP’s objective of strengthening Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions with industry-relevant infrastructure that equips graduates with skills demanded by modern economies.
The first phase of the project is scheduled for completion on 18 March, after which the second phase will continue for approximately six months before the facility becomes fully operational.
Once complete, the project is expected to deliver multiple benefits, ranging from improved training capacity at the college to increased renewable energy supply for the country.
“This project is very huge and strategic, and we expect that upon completion, the college will gain great benefits, but also the nation,” an ATC representative noted.
The electricity generated at the facility will not only support the institution’s operational needs but will also be fed into the national grid, contributing to efforts to address power shortages.
The progress of the hydropower facility recently attracted the attention of the ATC leadership when the Governing Board conducted an official site visit to assess the ongoing works.
During the inspection, board members toured several critical components of the facility. They observed the installation of control room panels and electrical cable wiring systems that will regulate the plant’s operations, as well as insulation works within the powerhouse designed to ensure safety and efficiency. The delegation also reviewed the ongoing excavation of the tailrace channel, a key structure that will allow water to flow safely away from the turbines after power generation.
The board commended the contractors for maintaining steady progress on the project. Construction works are being undertaken by the Chinese firm HNIC in collaboration with the Tanzanian company White City.
During the visit, college leadership also expressed appreciation to the Government of Tanzania for supporting the project.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who is the principal leader of this country, for her decision to provide funds for this project,” said Dr. Noel Mbonde, the Chairperson of the Board.
The Ministry of Education was also recognised for working closely with the college leadership and contractors to ensure the project progresses as planned.
As the facility moves into its final stages, the Governing Board urged the construction teams to maintain momentum while ensuring the highest standards of workmanship.
“The work must be completed not only on time but also with high quality so that we obtain value for money,” Dr, Mbonde said.
Once operational, the hydropower facility will stand as one of the most visible examples of how EASTRIP investments are strengthening technical training institutions in East Africa, linking modern infrastructure, practical skills development, and sustainable energy solutions.
By Makundi Senzota, Communication Specialist for EASTRIP at Arusha Technical College
