Rusumo 80MW hydroelectric power station is 59% complete.

The construction of Rusumo Hydroelectric Power Station to generate 80MW has now reached 59% compared to 32% in June last year. The revelations were made by the outgoing chairman of Energy Ministers from Tanzania, Burundi and Rwanda, Tanzanian Minister for Energy, Dr Medard Kalemani.

“After inspection, my fellow energy ministers and I were satisfied with the construction progress,” said the minister.

Rusumo Hydroelectric Power Station involves the construction of a dam shared by Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi.

Dr Kalemani noted that a team of ministers from the three East African countries rejected the contractor’s request to extend the project period.

“We have directed the contractor and a team of supervisors to complete the project in February this year,” he said.

The contractor’s reasons for extension of time was due to complaints from residents near the project site. He said Rusumo residents had lodged complaints with the contractor over blasts while implementing the project, so proper assessment need to be done.

Dr Kalemani noted that they directed the contractor to submit the request to the team of ministers with clear reasons for time extension and that compensation should start for the residents to relocate and pave way for project implementation.