By Charles Mkoka
The President of the
United Republic of Tanzania Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, has introduced a price
subsidy on gas cylinders supplied by the Rural Energy Agency (Rea) as part of
her initiative to encourage Tanzanians to adopt clean and safe energy
solutions, benefiting both public health and the environment.
This announcement was
made by the Director of Alternative and Renewable Energy, Hon. Advera Mwijage,
during her visit to the Rea pavilion at the Samia KILIMO Biashara Expo 2024,
held in Gairo district, Morogoro region. Addressing the Gairo District
Commissioner and the public Mwijage highlighted the significance of the
subsidy.
"President Samia
has introduced this subsidy to ensure gas cylinders are sold at affordable
prices and made accessible to all Tanzanians, facilitating the shift towards
this vital energy source," said Hon. Mwijage.
As part of these
efforts, Rea will continue distributing gas stoves across the country, with
3,225 gas stoves allocated for the Gairo district alone, aiming to promote and
encourage the use of clean cooking energy. Additionally, 790 eco-friendly,
efficient stoves are being distributed to the people of Gairo.
These stoves are designed to reduce
environmental impact by using minimal charcoal and are known for their
durability.
Gairo District
Commissioner Jabir Makame expressed his gratitude to President Samia for the
subsidy, which will help ensure gas cylinders are more readily available to the
people of Gairo. He emphasized the importance of adopting cleaner energy
alternatives to preserve the environment and protect public health.
"I urge my fellow
citizens to embrace these stoves, which are safe and environmentally friendly.
By using them, we can protect our forests from deforestation caused by charcoal
and firewood use," said Makame.
Residents of Gairo and
surrounding areas have welcomed the government’s initiative, praising the
subsidy for making gas and efficient stoves more affordable and accessible.
They are encouraged to visit the Rea pavilion to benefit from the program if
they have not yet received their stoves.