Arusha, Tanzania—Energy experts from across East Africa have gathered in Arusha for the region’s first Clean Cooking Energy Forum, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at advancing access to modern, affordable, and sustainable cooking solutions.
Held from May 6 to 8, 2025, the forum brings together delegates from Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Malawi.
Participants are exchanging knowledge, exploring innovations, and aligning regional strategies to accelerate the shift from traditional cooking fuels to clean alternatives.
On the second day of the forum, May 7, discussions focused on policy frameworks, clean cooking technologies, market development, and shared implementation challenges.
“This is more than just a meeting,” said Dr. Aisha Mshana, a senior energy advisor from Tanzania. “It’s a regional call to action. We’re here to ensure that clean cooking becomes a right, not a privilege.”
Despite increased attention in recent years, the use of firewood and charcoal remains widespread in East Africa, contributing to indoor air pollution, deforestation, and greenhouse gas emissions.
According to the World Health Organization, indoor smoke from dirty cooking fuels is a leading cause of respiratory illnesses, especially among women and children.
“Millions of families still cook over open fires,” said Grace Nankunda, a renewable energy specialist from Uganda. “We cannot talk about energy access without tackling this silent health crisis.”
The forum showcased a variety of clean cooking solutions including improved cookstoves, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), ethanol, biogas, and biomass briquettes.
Experts stressed the importance of local innovation, private sector engagement, and public awareness to drive adoption.
“Technology alone isn’t enough,” said Eric Mutabazi, a clean energy entrepreneur from Rwanda. “We must build markets, create demand, and make these solutions affordable for everyday families.”
Delegates also called for stronger public-private partnerships and more investment in clean cooking infrastructure.
A joint declaration is expected at the end of the forum, outlining shared goals and a roadmap for future collaboration.
“This forum has sparked the political will and technical cooperation we need,” added Dr. Mshana. “Now it’s time to move from dialogue to delivery.”
The event continues with technical sessions and site visits, providing deeper insights into the region’s progress and challenges in the clean cooking energy transition.
