Mozambique’s National Energy Transport Company (STE) has spent over $58 million to resettle and compensate thousands of people and institutions affected by the construction of the 563-kilometre Temane–Maputo Power Transmission Line.
The transmission line, which is a key component of the country’s electrification strategy and carries energy from the Temane Thermal Power Plant in Inhambane to the capital Maputo, forms part of the broader Tete–Maputo mega-project, dubbed the “Backbone” of Mozambique’s national grid expansion.
The 400-kilovolt line includes three new substations in Vilankulo, Chibuto and Matalane aimed at enhancing grid reliability and supporting economic growth.
According to figures provided by the company, the project displaced 219 homes in Inhambane, Gaza and Maputo, and impacted two hospitals, three schools, a police station and three water sources.
STE has allocated $25.7 million for resettlement of affected households and public infrastructure.
An additional $21 million was paid in compensation for 2,736 farms and 12 commercial establishments disrupted by the power line.
The payments covered losses such as houses, land, fruit trees and other assets.
The company has also invested $4.6 million to construct 88 classrooms, 18 water supply stations, a maternity ward, a maternity home and a community centre.
A further US$7 million was spent on consultancy services for urban planning, construction oversight and livelihood restoration.
STE is a subsidiary of the publicly owned Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM) and the transmission line is expected to play a pivotal role in expanding access to electricity across southern Mozambique.
JN/APA