MWE Correspondent
Tanzania’s National Service (JKT) continues to adopt clean cooking technologies across its camps. This initiative is part of the country’s broader National Clean Cooking Energy Strategy (2024–2034), aiming to reduce reliance on traditional fuels that contribute to environmental degradation and health risks.
On August 11, in Makutupora, Dodoma, Colonel Juma Mrai, Acting Head of the Administration Branch of JKT, opened a training session attended by personnel from 22 military units participating in the clean energy programme. Speaking on behalf of the JKT Commander, Colonel Mrai emphasized the importance of transitioning from polluting fuels to cleaner alternatives, echoing the directive of Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan to institutions serving large populations.
The Rural Energy Agency (REA) has played a crucial role in this transition, supporting JKT with equipment and training. To date, the agency has provided 60 alternative charcoal-making machines, 291 improved cooking stoves, 180 LPG gas systems with accompanying utensils, 220 tonnes of alternative charcoal, and nine biogas systems. These efforts are backed by an investment totaling approximately 4.37 billion Tanzanian shillings, marking a 76 percent completion of the clean energy rollout in JKT camps.
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Dr. Advera Mwijage, Director of Renewable and Alternative Energy Technologies at REA, explained that the training sessions aim to empower military officers and soldiers to become advocates of clean cooking energy within their units and communities. She highlighted that about 50,000 youths have already received training under the initiative, which aligns with Tanzania’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those addressing clean energy and climate action.
The programme is expected to reduce deforestation and indoor air pollution, common challenges associated with the use of firewood and charcoal. It also aims to improve health outcomes and operational efficiency among military personnel.
Tanzania’s efforts reflect a broader regional movement within the East African Community (EAC) to promote renewable energy solutions and sustainable development. The integration of clean cooking technologies into institutional frameworks like the military is seen as a key model for driving large-scale environmental and social benefits.
