Joseph Isangura
Tanzania is stepping up its commitment to clean energy by expanding the use of safe cooking technologies in public institutions—starting with schools.
The Ministry of Energy says this move is part of a broader plan to reduce dependence on traditional fuels like firewood and charcoal, which have long posed environmental and health challenges in the country.
Speaking before Parliament in Dodoma, Deputy Minister of Energy, Judith Kapinga, announced that by March 2025, more than 216 public schools had already shifted to clean cooking energy. Of these, 146 secondary schools are now using Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) to prepare meals—a significant milestone for the country’s clean energy transition.
Kapinga said the initiative is being driven by the Rural Energy Agency (REA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy. On April 20, 2025, REA received official approval from TAMISEMI (President’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government) to roll out clean cooking infrastructure in an additional 115 schools. These include:
- 16 regional girls’ science secondary schools
- 7 national boys’ schools
- 66 regular boarding schools
- 26 of the country’s oldest secondary institutions
“This is not just about switching fuel,” Kapinga emphasized. “It’s about protecting our children, our teachers, and our environment. Clean cooking is a national priority.”
The clean energy initiative is also being expanded to other sectors. According to Kapinga, the Ministry is installing clean cooking systems in facilities managed by the Tanzania Police Force, the Prisons Department, and the Fire and Rescue Force in 24 regions. Refugee camps are also slated to benefit.
Also Read; US, Ukraine Finally Sign Mineral Deal
Healthcare facilities have not been left behind. Kapinga confirmed that approximately 21 hospitals—including regional, district, and national centers—will soon receive modern cooking systems to improve hygiene, efficiency, and safety in food preparation.
Responding to another question in Parliament, Kapinga explained that the government is now integrating clean energy solutions into the construction of new schools, dispensaries, and health centers. “From the ground up, our public infrastructure will reflect our national energy goals,” she said.
The shift is part of Tanzania’s broader Clean Cooking Energy Strategy (2024–2034), which aims to ensure that more than 80% of Tanzanians are using clean cooking fuel by 2034. It also supports the country’s targets under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy.
As the clean energy rollout continues, the government is calling on development partners, NGOs, and the private sector to collaborate in reaching more institutions and communities. With momentum growing, Tanzania appears to be on a promising path to cleaner, safer, and more sustainable energy for all.
