Shorty summary
- Dr Biteko warmly welcomes the Russians to invest in clean energy cooking
- Russia is set to assist Tanzania in health, cyber security and infrastructure protection
- The major global energy company INTER RAO Export expresses interesting in investing in Tanzania
These discussions between Dr. Biteko and Hon. Tsivilev took place alongside the International Economic Forum in St. Petersburg, Russia.
During the meeting, Dr. Biteko highlighted that the level of investment from Russia in the country amounts to 424 million US dollars through 44 projects that employ over 3,000 people, while also outlining the investment opportunities available in the energy sector.
"Tanzania boasts 61.7% of its energy from renewable sources and has investment opportunities valued at 4 billion dollars in the energy sector," stated Dr. Biteko.
He mentioned the government's efforts to bring about reforms in the energy sector while involving the private sector in the implementation of joint projects and promoting the use of clean cooking energy, citing the African Heads of State Energy Conference held in Dar es Salaam in January 2025, which aimed to provide electricity to 600 million Africans who currently lack access.
Additionally, Dr. Biteko has invited investors from Russia to increase their investments in the country, particularly in clean cooking energy, where he pointed out the presence of private sector investment opportunities for independent power generation and public-private partnerships.
Moreover, Dr. Biteko expressed his satisfaction with the nearly 64-year diplomatic relationship between Tanzania and Russia, stating that this relationship aims to benefit the citizens of both nations.
On his part, the Russian Minister of Energy, Mr. Sergey Tsivilev, discussed the significance of energy in economic development, particularly regarding energy security, accessibility, affordability, and efficiency.
Mr. Tsivilev stated that Russia is prepared to assist with technology and build the capacity of African professionals, including those in Tanzania, to ensure technological independence.
"Russia has a fair strategy in collaboration with long-term partners to develop the systems of the countries," said Mr. Tsivilev.
He also mentioned other areas where Russia has pledged to support Tanzania, including health, cybersecurity, and the protection of critical infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the Executive Director of INTER RAO Export, one of the largest energy companies in the world, Mr. Maxim Sergeev, while expressing interest in investing in the country, noted that the company has the capacity to produce various equipment, including generators and machines, and has annual contracts worth up to 8 billion dollars.
Additionally, the discussions between Dr. Biteko and Tsivilev were also attended by the Tanzanian Ambassador in Moscow, Mr. Frederick Kibuta, the Director of Economic Diplomacy from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mr. Ambassador John Ulanga, and the Assistant Commissioner for Petroleum Development, Engineer Marwa Petro.
Also, the Executive Director of the Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO), Lazaro Twange, held talks with Rosatom and Unigreen regarding cooperation in electricity production from uranium and solar energy, where Unigreen is continuing investment procedures in the country to sustain development for the citizens.