Contribution of Rural Electrification in Improving People’s Livelihood in Tanzania: A Case of Mpanda District, Tanzania

Abstract

The study sought to establish the contribution of rural electrification in improving people’s livelihood in Mpanda District, Tanzania using the descriptive design. Convenient sampling technique was used to select 158 heads of households with electricity in five remotely located wards. Data collection instruments included questionnaire, Focus Group Discussion and Interview Schedule. Validity was ensured through accurate construction of research instruments and the use of multiple instruments helped to increase the reliability of the study findings. Data was analyzed through descriptive statistics and the content analysis approach. The study concludes that electrification supported such economic activities as shops and kiosks, groceries, restaurants and hair cutting and beauty salons. Furthermore, it improved domestic activities like lighting, charging phones and listening to radio. It made life easier and more pleasurable by allowing businesses and kiosks to function even during the night hours. Electricity supported children's education by allowing them to study at night. It also expanded knowledge of people through watching television channels and movies. Finally, rural electrification enabled villagers to receive health services closer to their homes and at a lower cost. The study recommended that government authorities should supply electricity in rural areas in order to increase the use of the service for economic and domestic activities which will enhance the economic status of the rural area people.