President Samia Suluhu Hassan has cemented her commitment to clean energy by donating 528 gas cylinders and dual-burner stoves to prison officers in Arusha Region, reinforcing the government's efforts to promote safe and sustainable cooking solutions.
The donation, made through the Rural Energy Agency (REA), was officially launched on June 25, 2025, at the Arusha Central Prison, marking another milestone in the government’s clean cooking energy campaign.
Speaking at the event, the Chairperson of the Rural Energy Board (REB), Retired Major General Jacob Kingu, said the Head of State continues to lead the charge in encouraging institutions particularly those serving over 100 people to transition to clean and safe cooking alternatives.
“President Samia is at the forefront of this national drive. Her leadership has put clean cooking energy at the centre of our development agenda,” said Maj Gen (Rtd) Kingu.
He said the distribution of gas cylinders to prison staff reflects the government’s long-term commitment to environmental conservation, health protection, and the promotion of modern energy use.
“The government is not only urging the public to shift away from charcoal and firewood—it is taking practical steps to ensure access and awareness,” he added.
REA Director General, Engineer Hassan Saidy, emphasized the health and environmental dangers associated with traditional cooking fuels and urged prison staff to become champions of change within their communities.
“Colleagues, this is a call to action. Clean cooking energy is not only safer for your families, but also for the nation. President Samia’s government has invested heavily to make clean energy accessible for all Tanzanians,” Eng. Saidy told the gathering.
He highlighted the National Clean Cooking Communication Strategy, which seeks to increase public awareness and inspire institutions to adopt cleaner cooking technologies.
The Acting Arusha Regional Prisons Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Prisons Prosper Kapinga, applauded the government’s initiative, describing it as a game-changer for staff welfare.
“This is a clear demonstration of how the government is walking the talk. By giving us these gas stoves and cylinders, it is improving our daily lives and setting a positive example for the rest of the country,” Kapinga said.
The clean energy drive aligns with Tanzania’s broader environmental and health goals and is part of the government’s strategy to reduce dependency on biomass fuels, combat indoor air pollution, and protect forests.
The initiative follows President Samia’s directive to accelerate the use of clean cooking solutions across households, schools, health centres, and other public institutions nationwide.