Tanzania Wracked Again By Energy Shortages, Kilimanjaro Threatened

Posted on 06. Nov, 2009 by Ross in Africa, Energy Shortages

For the fourth year running Tanzania is being left in the dark by severe energy shortages which are crippling businesses.

Blaming the problems on delayed rainfall only highlights the nation’s dependence upon weather systems set to become more severe as climate change worsens, which also threaten to destroy the attractiveness of the country’s most famous tourist attraction.

In a story being played all over Africa, seasonal power shortages have plagued Tanzania yet again recently, with energy rationing in place. The lack of power has left much of the population also feeling powerless, unsure of how to respond to the energy shortages which reduce their living standards and disrupt their businesses - small businesses and entrepreneurs have characteristically been the worst hit over the last few years.

With little progress being made to secure further energy sources for the future, Tanzania seems locked into a vicious circle of disruption and despair.

To add insult to injury, Mount Kilimajaro - Tanzania’s iconic tourist destination - is expected to become ice-free within the next two decades if the current rate of deglaciation persists due to climate change.

The glaciers on the mountain help draw 40,000 visitors every year, resulting in $50 million in direct income into the local economy. The Tanzanian tourist industry is the country’s biggest draw for foreign cash, bringing in $1.2 billion annually.

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Image of Mount Kilimanjaro by pintaa @ Flickr