MWE Correspondent
Tanzania’s Ministry of Energy has emphasized its commitment to ensuring that citizens adopt clean cooking energy, urging households to move away from traditional fuels such as firewood and charcoal, which pose serious health and environmental risks.
The announcement was made in Dar es Salaam during the launch of a nationwide campaign promoting the use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and other modern cooking fuels. The initiative, organized by the Ministry of Energy in collaboration with private stakeholders, aims to make safe and sustainable cooking accessible to all Tanzanians.
Speaking at the event, Nolasco Mlay, Director-General of the Ministry’s Clean Cooking Energy Unit, highlighted the dangers of continuing to rely on wood and charcoal. “If we do not transition to clean cooking fuels, the consequences are significant for both health and the environment. We are already witnessing widespread tree cutting as people depend on these traditional fuels for daily cooking,” he said.
Relying on firewood and charcoal contributes to air pollution, which can cause respiratory illnesses, eye problems, and other health complications, particularly among women and children who spend extended periods near cooking fires. Additionally, widespread deforestation and ecosystem degradation result from unsustainable harvesting of wood for fuel.
Private sector partners have played a critical role in supporting the government’s initiative. These companies are raising awareness among communities about the benefits of modern fuels, making LPG more accessible and promoting safe usage practices.
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Araman Benoit, Director-General of a leading clean energy distributor, reinforced the message, noting that many families still rely on wood, charcoal, and kerosene for cooking, increasing both health risks and environmental damage. “Our mission is to make clean energy affordable and available so that every household can switch from traditional fuels to safer alternatives,” he said.
The campaign aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable energy and reduce deforestation. By encouraging a shift to modern fuels, Tanzania aims to curb greenhouse gas emissions, protect natural resources, and improve public health outcomes.
Experts also point out that urban and peri-urban areas stand to benefit the most, as smoke from charcoal and wood significantly affects air quality. Expanding access to LPG and other clean fuels can dramatically reduce exposure to harmful smoke and particulates, contributing to healthier communities.
Through this campaign, Tanzania is demonstrating a proactive approach to sustainable development, showing how collaboration between government agencies and private stakeholders can accelerate the adoption of clean energy while addressing pressing environmental and health challenges.
