Zambia has long relied on hydro-based power gener tion for both domestic needs and exports. However, increasing droughts and climate shocks have exposed serious risks to energy security and economic stability. The Zambia–Tanzania Interconnector seeks to address these challenges by linking Zambia’s national grid to Tanzania’s, effectively connecting the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) and the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP). This cross-border high-voltage transmission infrastructure will enable Zambia to import and export power more efficiently, improving the reliability of electricity supply for households, businesses, and vital public services. By leveraging Zambia’s existing surplus capacity when water levels are favourable — and conversely importing power during drought periods — the project significantly reduces the economic and social impacts of power shortages.

It also cuts reliance on expensive, high-emission diesel generators. Funded through a major multi-partner effort under the Global Gateway framework, the interconnector is a flagship project that supports Zambia’s ambitions for green growth, energy diversification, and industrial expansion. Ultimately, it paves the way for a more robust and climate-resilient energy ecosystem across Southern and Eastern Africa.

Objectives 

1. Strengthen Regional Power Trade: Complete the remaining segment of the high-voltage transmission line between Zambia and Tanzania, enabling seamless electricity exchange across

Southern and Eastern Africa.

2. Enhance Energy Security and Resilience: Mitigate the risks posed by droughts through diversified power sources, reducing dependence on hydro-based generation in Zambia.

3. Boost Industrial and Economic Development: Provide reliable electricity to critical sectors (mining, manufacturing, and services), driving job creation and inclusive growth in Northern Zambia and beyond.

4. Reduce Environmental Impact: Lower greenhouse gas emissions by substituting diesel-based generation with cleaner electricity flows within the region and fostering integration of renewable energy.

5. Reinforce Institutional Capacity: Support ZESCO and the Ministry of Energy via targeted technical assistance, strengthening regulatory frameworks, project management, and operational efficiency.

Expected results
• Builds approximately 620 km of 330 kV/400 kV transmission lines and substations, raising capacity from 17,647 kVA to 588,235 kVA, and adding
120 MVA in Nakonde.
• Makes it possible to import electricity when Zambia faces shortages and export when surplus, reducing load shedding — especially during droughts.
• Cuts reliance on diesel generation, lowering greenhouse gas emissions by up to 7.9 tCO₂e per year.
• Boosts industrial growth, job creation, and public services (health centres, schools, and water systems), while reinforcing Zambia’s role in regional power trade.
• Provides training for ZESCO’s Project Implementation Unit to handle large scale projects, and strengthens OPPPI’s capacity for policy, regulation, and regional coordination with SAPP and EAPP.
• Aligns with the Global Gateway initiative and Zambia’s Nationally Determined Contribution, contributing to SDGs 7, 10, and 13.