Deputy Permanent Secretary (Environment) in the Vice President's Office, Christina Mndeme cooks ugali during the Samia KILIMO Business Expo. Photo: Courtesy
By Charles Mkoka
President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced a 50% subsidy on the price of gas cylinders distributed across the country by the Rural Energy Agency (Rea).
This initiative was revealed today, October 10, 2024, by the Deputy Permanent Secretary (Environment) in the Vice President's Office, Christina Mndeme, during the Samia KILIMO Business Expo 2024 held in Gairo District, Morogoro Region.
Mndeme stated that the primary goal of this subsidy is to reduce the high costs associated with clean cooking energy, making it more affordable for every Tanzanian. “President Samia is a champion of clean energy in the country, and she encourages us as Tanzanians to continue utilizing clean energy by providing a price subsidy for each gas cylinder,” she emphasized.
Additionally, Gairo District Commissioner Jabir Makame praised Rea for its ongoing efforts to distribute gas cylinders and efficient cooking stoves to residents. He stressed the importance of continued education on the proper use of this clean energy resource.
Engineer Deusdedit Malulu also provided insights into clean cooking energy, highlighting its significance, the dangers of using polluting fuels, and the best practices for utilizing clean energy technologies. "I have shared knowledge on how to effectively use clean cooking technology and discussed various projects being implemented by Rea in the clean cooking energy sector," he stated.
So far, four companies have been licensed by Rea to distribute gas, including Oryx, Manjis, Lake, and Taifa Gas, which will provide gas cylinders at subsidized prices. This initiative marks a significant step towards promoting the use of clean energy for cooking in Tanzania, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving energy accessibility and sustainability.
