Joseph Isangura
Tanzania is stepping up efforts to make clean cooking energy more affordable and accessible, with President Samia Suluhu Hassan reaffirming the government’s commitment to working with the private sector to drive this initiative forward.
During her visit to Tanga, President Samia emphasized the need to transition away from traditional fuels like charcoal and firewood, which not only contribute to deforestation but also pose serious health risks. She assured that the government is determined to create a favorable environment for investors in the clean cooking energy sector.
“We are working on policies that will enable private sector participation in making clean cooking energy affordable. We have already started providing subsidies to those engaged in gas processing so that more households can access clean energy at a lower cost,” she said.
The government has already rolled out several measures to support this shift. One key intervention is a 50% subsidy on gas stoves, allowing consumers to cover only half of the cost. In urban areas, gas cylinders are also being subsidized by 20% to encourage more people to adopt clean cooking solutions.
The clean cooking initiative is part of a broader national strategy aimed at reducing reliance on biomass fuel, which is a leading cause of deforestation in Tanzania. Reports indicate that the country loses nearly 469,000 hectares of forest annually due to excessive charcoal and firewood consumption. The government believes that making clean cooking energy more affordable will help slow down this trend while also improving public health by reducing indoor air pollution.
Deputy Minister for Energy, Judith Kapinga, revealed that 452,445 subsidized gas cylinders have already been distributed across the country, with Tanga Region receiving 26,400 units. In Muheza District alone, 3,255 cylinders have been allocated, ensuring that more households gain access to safer cooking alternatives.
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Additionally, President Samia has directed that institutions serving over 100 people—such as schools, hospitals, and military camps—must shift away from using charcoal and firewood. The government is also working on a long-term plan to establish a dedicated fund that will continue to subsidize cooking gas and cylinders, ensuring that prices remain affordable for citizens in both urban and rural areas.
The President further encouraged private sector investment in the industry, especially in rural areas where access to clean cooking energy remains limited. She highlighted innovative solutions, such as prepaid gas systems, as a way to make the transition smoother for lower-income households.
This push for clean cooking energy aligns with Tanzania’s commitment to environmental conservation, public health, and sustainable development. By bringing together government efforts and private sector participation, the country is laying the groundwork for a cleaner, healthier future for its people.
