Hydro electric projects for Tanzania

A top level meeting between China National Heavy Machines (CNHM) and the Rufiji Basin Development Authority (RUBADA) is scheduled for early September 2010 in the prime minister's office in Dar es Salaam. The topic of discussion is Chinese investment in hydro power projects in Tanzania.

While the CNHM has expressed interest in investing in a number of hydro-power projects in Tanzania's energy sector, the particular focus of this meeting will be its proposed US$1.2 billion investment in a 464 megawatt project in the Rufiji Basin's Kilombero district in central Tanzania, by the Kinengenas and Shuguri waterfalls.

The talks come in the wake of last year's Tanzanian visit by Chinese president Hu Jintao and a subsequent visit to China by a Tanzanian governmental trade delegation.

Another scheme in the Kilombero district, involving Chinese investment of $US 400 million in a 165 mw hydro power station on the Mpanga river, is currently on hold. Due to have started in June 2010, the project is under review by the Chinese government, which will make its final decision after Tanzania's general election on 31 October 2010.

In the event of the project getting the green light, the Tanzanian government will be represented by RUBADA who will oversee the project in collaboration with Bejing-based Sinohydro Corporation.