Joseph Isangura
The Tanzanian government is intensifying its efforts to expand access to clean cooking energy, particularly in rural areas. In a recent initiative, the Ministry of Energy has added up to 200,000 gas cylinders to facilitate the distribution of 400,000 six-kilogram cylinders.
This move is part of a broader strategy to make clean cooking energy affordable for rural communities and peripheral urban users, thereby reducing reliance on environmentally harmful fuels such as firewood and charcoal.
At a signing ceremony held in the capital, Deputy Prime Minister and Energy Minister, Dr. Doto Biteko, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to lowering cooking gas costs and promoting energy access. He emphasized the collaboration between the government and various companies in executing this national clean cooking strategy. This partnership is expected to not only enhance energy accessibility but also protect the environment and improve public health by reducing indoor air pollution caused by traditional cooking methods.
Additionally, Dr. Biteko inaugurated the new headquarters of the Rural Energy Agency (REA), a crucial institution in the country’s rural electrification and clean energy expansion agenda. He stressed that providing quality public services is central to the government’s mission, noting that the value of leadership positions diminishes when citizens continue to experience substandard services.
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This initiative reflects Tanzania’s growing focus on sustainable energy solutions, aligning with global efforts to tackle climate change by reducing carbon emissions through cleaner energy sources.
By investing in clean energy infrastructure and ensuring affordability, the government aims to improve the livelihoods of its people while addressing environmental challenges. This project will also contribute to reducing health risks and gender-based violence by eliminating the need for women and children to forage for firewood in unsafe environments.
With these continued efforts, Tanzania is poised to become a leader in clean energy adoption across Africa.
