TAWIRI embarks on removing GPS collars on elephants Wilson Malima, Daily News January 13, 2024 The Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI) has embarked on a process to remove Global Positioning System (GPS) collars on elephants in areas affected by the 400 kV Kenya-Tanzania Power Interconnection Project (KTPIP). The exercise is being implemented in Longido, Hanang, Babati and Monduli where there are wildlife corridors which have been affected by the project. Speaking in Longido District, TAWIRI Director General, Dr Eblate Mjingo said KTPIP intersects in wildlife corridors in Tanganyeeti and Laasarack in Longido District, Kwakuchinja corridor in Babati, Mswakini chini in Monduli and Swagaswaga Game Reserve. He said TAWIRI has conducted research and advised the government through Tanzania Electric Supply Company on sustainable conservation. “In order to get scientific information, various research has continued to be used, whereby in 2019, 30 elephants were fixed with GPS collars in the corridors with the aim of monitoring whether the animals will continue to pass at the area after execution of the project. Preliminary results indicated that the animals have continued to pass at the areas even after the infrastructures were installed and the monitoring will continue when the power will be switched on,” Dr Mjingo said. Mr Marco Ng’umbi, the Longido District Commissioner, expressed appreciation to President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan’s strong leadership in ensuring sustainable conservation in the country. He highlighted the government’s commitment to evaluate environmental and social impacts through scientific research while implementing strategic projects to bring development to Tanzanians. Eng John Lazmah, an official from TANESCO and an environmental engineer involved in the KTPIP project, explained that the endeavor aims to connect the electricity systems of Kenya and Tanzania, facilitating the exchange of electricity between the two countries. For Tanzania, the project spans from Singida to Namanga through the Lemugur electrolysis center located in Kisongo, Arusha Region. Eng Lazmah emphasised that the KTPIP project contributes to Tanzania’s economic growth by generating surplus power for sale to other countries. Additionally, he said, “it ensures a reliable electricity supply when the country faces reduced electricity production due to unexpected circumstances. This enables uninterrupted economic and social activities that depend on electricity,” According to the Tanzania Electricity Supply Company (TANESCO), the Kenya-Tanzania Power Interconnection Project has a budget of 258 million US dollars and is expected to be completed early this year. https://dailynews.co.tz/tawiri-embarks-on-removing-gps-collars-on-elephants/