By Business Insider Reporter
Tanzania’s national power utility, Tanesco, has launched a new generation of smart meters in what the government describes as a major technological milestone aimed at modernising electricity services and improving revenue collection across the country.
The meters were unveiled on December 5, 2025 by the Minister for Energy, Deogratius Ndejembi, at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam. The event was attended by senior government officials, energy-sector stakeholders, and Tanesco executives.
The new smart meters allow customers to receive electricity instantly after purchasing tokens – without the need for a Customer Interface Unit (CIU), the handheld device previously required to key in token numbers.
The innovation is expected to significantly reduce common challenges faced under the old system, particularly delays and technical glitches associated with token entry.
“We are proud to witness this historic leap by Tanesco, one of the best-performing public utilities in the delivery of customer services,” said Minister Ndejembi. “These smart meters will transform how the utility manages revenue collection and enhances efficiency across its operations.”
According to the Minister, customer frustrations over token entry were a key driver behind the government’s push for digital reforms.
“This launch marks an important chapter in our technological advancement as a country. Tanesco must now ensure these meters are rolled out to all high-demand areas, in line with international standards, while also educating the public on their benefits,” he added.
For her part, the Deputy Minister for Energy, Salome Makamba, said the introduction of smart meters aligns with the government’s broader agenda to enhance service delivery and accelerate digital transformation.
“I am delighted to witness this major step forward – just 33 days since President Samia Suluhu Hassan began her new term in office. Today, we mark a historic moment for Tanesco customers through the rollout of Smart Meters,” she said.
Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila emphasised the need to protect national energy infrastructure and applauded Tanesco for strengthening collaboration with security agencies to combat vandalism.
“This initiative reminds us of the immense responsibility we all have to protect critical infrastructure. I commend Tanesco for its cooperation with the police in tackling acts of sabotage. Continue with this momentum to ensure reliable power supply,” Chalamila said.
Felichesmi Mramba, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy, praised Tanesco for delivering the project on schedule. He noted that the technology will allow the utility to detect customer challenges far earlier – often before a customer files a complaint.
Tanesco’s Board Vice Chairperson, Ambassador Zuhura Bundala, said the board is encouraged by the ongoing reforms and is committed to steering the organisation towards deeper digital transformation.
“The Board takes pride in the improvements being made in service delivery, and these reforms strengthen our resolve to guide Tanesco towards even more advanced digital services,” she said. The launch of the smart meter system marks one of Tanesco’s most significant digital upgrades in recent years, positioning the utility for enhanced operational efficiency, improved customer interaction, and stronger revenue protection as demand for electricity continues to rise across Tanzania.
