By Alfred Zacharia
In a significant move to promote clean
cooking energy, the Tanzanian government has allocated Sh10 billion for the
2024/25 fiscal year to supply Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) to rural areas.
Deputy Minister of Energy, Ms. Judith Kapinga,
announced on July 23, 2024, that 400,000 gas cylinders will be distributed
through the Rural Energy Agency (REA). This initiative aims to advance the use
of clean cooking energy, offering both environmental and health benefits.
"Currently, the government has
provided 83,500 subsidized cylinders valued at Sh3.5 billion and will continue
this effort throughout the financial year," Ms. Kapinga stated to
residents of Mbinga District. The subsidy is intended to ease the financial
burden on residents purchasing clean cooking equipment.
Discussions are underway with stakeholders to explore grants for LPG supply agents, aiming to make clean cooking technology more affordable at the village level. Ms. Kapinga highlighted that President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan's strong commitment has positioned Tanzania as a leader in the global Clean Energy Agenda.
Eng. Emmanuel Yesaya, Acting Assistant Technical Manager for Investors at REA, emphasized that the agency’s role includes supporting rural energy projects, enhancing investor capacity, and promoting environmental protection through clean energy initiatives. This concerted effort underscores Tanzania's commitment to sustainable development and energy efficiency.
