Media Wire Express Correspondent
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, has stated that the government welcomes investors in the energy sector to accelerate production, distribution, and customer connection in the country’s energy sector.
Dr. Biteko made these remarks on October 21, 2024, in Singapore while participating in an energy discussion alongside Cambodia’s Minister of Mines and Energy, Keo Rottanak, and New Zealand’s Minister of Natural Resources, Shane Jones, during the opening of Singapore International Energy Week.
“Governments cannot do everything on their own, so it is crucial to collaborate with the private sector. In Tanzania, we invite the private sector to invest in energy to enhance production, access, and distribution, ultimately improving people’s lives,” Dr. Biteko said.
Addressing the clean cooking energy agenda, he noted that a large number of Tanzanians rely on firewood and charcoal for cooking, which leads to respiratory illnesses and environmental degradation. To mitigate these effects, Dr. Biteko said the government has a strategy to ensure that 80% of Tanzanians use clean cooking energy by 2034.
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The government has been educating citizens about clean cooking energy while ensuring it’s affordable and accessible. Dr. Biteko also mentioned various energy projects, including the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project (JNHPP), which will generate 2,115 megawatts, significantly boosting the country’s energy surplus.
He added that Tanzania is expanding its renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and gas, and is preparing to export electricity to Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, and Zambia. Tanzania is part of the Eastern Africa Power Pool and Southern African Development Community (SADC), providing a reliable market for energy investment.
At the same event, Cambodia’s Minister, Keo Rottanak, shared his country’s energy reforms, while New Zealand’s Minister, Shane Jones, emphasized investments in renewable energy sources.
