Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, is scheduled to launch the National Clean Cooking Energy Communication Strategy on June 2, 2025, a major step in Tanzania’s efforts to transition to sustainable and healthy energy solutions.
The strategy, which aims to support the broader goal of having 80% of Tanzanians using clean cooking energy by 2034, will also be accompanied by the official rollout of the National Awareness and Education Campaign on Clean Cooking Energy.
Speaking at a press briefing in Dar es Salaam, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Engineer Felchesmi Mramba, emphasized the significance of the launch.
“This communication strategy is not just about information – it’s about transformation. It aims to change the mindset of millions of Tanzanians regarding how they cook and the energy they use every day,” he said.
Engineer Mramba highlighted that the strategy was developed through a partnership between the Ministry of Energy and the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), with financial backing from the European Union (EU).
“This collaborative effort is a testament to our commitment to cleaner, safer, and more affordable energy solutions for all Tanzanians,” he added.
As part of the launch activities, the Ministry will also receive two vehicles to be used in implementing the national campaign, particularly in remote and underserved areas.
These vehicles will help outreach teams engage directly with communities, raise awareness, and distribute educational materials.
The strategy is designed to address several key issues: increasing public knowledge about the health risks of traditional cooking fuels like charcoal and firewood, promoting the economic and environmental benefits of clean alternatives, encouraging investment from the private sector, and supporting the development of policies and regulations that facilitate widespread access to clean cooking technologies.
“We want to empower Tanzanians with the knowledge and tools to make better choices for their families and the environment,” Mramba noted.
“That means reaching everyone from urban centers to rural villages, from women and youth to health workers and local leaders.”he added
The campaign will deploy a variety of communication tools, including radio, television, print media, social media, and community outreach.
It will also engage traditional, religious, and political leaders to ensure messages are culturally relevant and widely accepted.
Also present at the briefing, Marc Stalmans, Head of Cooperation at the European Union Delegation to Tanzania, reiterated the EU’s support: “Clean cooking is a matter of health, climate, and economic opportunity. We are proud to support Tanzania’s leadership in this transition.”
Immanuel Muro, a Senior Financial Expert from UNCDF, echoed this sentiment: “This strategy marks a critical step toward scaling access to clean energy. With the right communication and partnerships, we can drive meaningful behavior change and create a stronger market for clean cooking solutions.”
The launch represents a united front between the government, international partners, and communities to build a healthier, greener, and more sustainable future for Tanzania