The State Mining Corporation (STAMICO) has empowered over 700 entrepreneurs from Ubungo Municipality with knowledge and skills on how to tap into the opportunities of investing in Rafiki Briquettes, an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative energy source suitable for every Tanzanian household.
Speaking on behalf of the District Commissioner of Ubungo during the opening of the seminar held today, May 30, 2025, in Dar es Salaam, the Municipal Environmental Officer, Ms. Jesca Stanley, emphasized the importance of adopting renewable energy — not only to protect the environment but also as an economic opportunity for youth and the wider community.
Ms. Stanley noted that the Ubungo Municipality will continue to create a supportive environment and empower youth by building their capacity to utilize renewable energy. This initiative aligns with national strategies for achieving sustainable development goals and environmental conservation.
“Eligible individuals should visit the Community Development Office at the Ubungo Municipal Council to receive guidance on accessing loans. Once granted, we urge beneficiaries to use the funds as per the established criteria, which will facilitate smooth loan repayment,” said Ms. Stanley.
On their part, STAMICO's Senior Marketing Officer, Mr. Bilton Otto, and Marketing Officer, Mr. Mark Stephano, highlighted the vast business potential in the Rafiki Briquettes sector, owing to its affordability and environmental advantages.
“We’ve sponsored over 700 entrepreneurs to attend this seminar. The turnout has been impressive, and many have expressed interest in becoming distributors of the Rafiki Briquettes after learning about their benefits compared to other energy sources,” Mr. Otto explained.
Mr. Stephano added that STAMICO introduced this product to help Tanzanians overcome the shortage of clean cooking energy.
He encouraged young people to form groups and apply for loans in collaboration with the Ubungo Municipality, noting the high demand for such solutions.
He pointed out that according to various statistics, Dar es Salaam Region is among the areas with the highest charcoal consumption, with nearly one million tons used annually.
“STAMICO introduced this product to showcase existing opportunities, in partnership with Ubungo Municipality, to enable entrepreneurs to access formal loans and to inspire youth to become agents for the Rafiki Briquettes renewable energy product,” he said.
Some entrepreneurs from Ubungo who participated in the seminar, including Asinath Jameson and Julius Msele, expressed their gratitude to STAMICO for sponsoring the training.
They said it had been immensely beneficial and gave them a unique opportunity to venture into the renewable energy business.
