Mozambique’s National Energy Transport Company (STE) has channelled more than $58 million into resettlement, compensation and social infrastructure for communities affected by the construction of the 563-kilometre Temane–Maputo Power Transmission Line, a project central to the country’s long-term electrification goals.
The high-voltage 400 kV transmission line, which links the Temane Thermal Power Plant in Inhambane to Maputo, forms a core part of the wider Tete–Maputo “Backbone” expansion, designed to strengthen the national grid and improve power reliability. The project also includes new substations in Vilankulo, Chibuto and Matalane, intended to stabilise supply and support economic activity across southern Mozambique.
THOUSANDS AFFECTED ACROSS THREE PROVINCES
According to STE data, construction works displaced 219 households across Inhambane, Gaza and Maputo provinces. The project also affected two hospitals, three schools, a police station and three community water sources.
To address these impacts, STE set aside $25.7 million for the resettlement of affected families and public facilities, ensuring replacement housing and relocation of essential services.
An additional $21 million went toward compensation for 2,736 farms and 12 commercial businesses, covering losses related to housing structures, agricultural land, crops, orchards, and other assets disrupted by the power corridor.
SIGNIFICANT COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENTS
Beyond financial payouts, STE has invested $4.6 million in community development projects tied to the resettlement programme. These include:
88 classrooms to support expanded access to education
18 water supply systems to ensure reliable community access
A new maternity ward, maternity home and community centre
These facilities are expected to mitigate the social impact of the project and improve living conditions in affected districts.
The company also allocated $7 million for consultancy work covering urban and rural planning, construction monitoring and livelihood restoration, aimed at helping displaced households re-establish stable income sources.
KEY PROJECT FOR REGIONAL ELECTRIFICATION
STE, a subsidiary of Mozambique’s state-owned Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM), says the Temane–Maputo line will significantly boost electricity availability in southern Mozambique and strengthen the national transmission backbone.
The line is expected to support future industrial expansion, reduce regional power shortages and enhance Mozambique’s capacity to integrate renewable energy sources.
Government officials say the project is a “critical step” toward achieving universal electricity access and positioning Mozambique as a regional energy hub.
Source:Africa Publicity
