Dar es Salaam. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has reaffirmed the Tanzanian government’s commitment to establishing conducive policies that promote private sector participation in clean cooking solutions.
During her visit to Muheza, Tanga on Thursday this week, she emphasized the importance of enacting friendly policies to ensure that affordable clean cooking solutions are accessible to all Tanzanians.
“Government will continue to enact friendly policies that will enable private sector participation in the availability of affordable clean cooking energy,” she stated.
This strategic direction is aligned with global trends that prioritize sustainable energy sources and recognize the necessity of transitioning to cleaner cooking methods for both public health and environmental preservation.
Addressing rural electrification
In her address, President Samia articulated a broader vision for rural electrification, emphasizing that access to electricity should extend beyond mere lighting and charging devices.
“Electricity in rural areas must be used for economic activities,” she declared, reinforcing the idea that energy access is a catalyst for economic empowerment.
This vision underscores the government’s commitment to not only improving living standards but also fostering economic growth through energy accessibility.
Deputy Minister for Energy Judith Kapinga commended President Samia for launching the subsidized distribution program for 452,445 gas cylinders, highlighting the significance of accessible and affordable energy in enhancing public health and promoting environmental sustainability.
Progress and impact
Ms Kapinga remarked, “Honorable President, your program has yielded significant results. As we approach one year of implementing this clean cooking energy strategy, we have made remarkable progress as a nation.”
Data indicates a promising trajectory for clean cooking solution adoption, with private sector involvement in gas distribution increasing from around 10-11 percent annually before the government’s strategy to a remarkable 50-60 percent in recent reports.
This surge reflects a robust market response and growing public interest in clean cooking options.
The collaborative efforts between the government and private sector have led to substantial increases in clean energy utilization, particularly in rural areas.
Moreover, the distribution of subsidized gas cylinders not only meets household energy needs but also addresses critical health concerns associated with traditional cooking methods that rely on biomass and other polluting fuels.
A sustainable energy future
The narrative emerging from President Samia’s initiatives in Muheza embodies a broader commitment to sustainable energy development in Tanzania.
By empowering the private sector, investing in clean cooking technologies, and prioritizing rural electrification, the government is paving the way for a transformative energy landscape.
Looking ahead to the ambitious target of achieving 80 percent of Tanzanians using clean cooking energy by 2034, the government’s proactive approach offers hope for a healthier, more sustainable future.
The synergy between policy, innovation, and community engagement will be crucial in realizing this vision, ensuring that every Tanzanian can benefit from clean, safe, and affordable energy solutions.
