The Media Aid for Indigenous People and Community (MAIPAC) has launched a clean energy campaign aimed at reducing reliance on firewood among pastoral communities in Monduli District by distributing 1,000 free gas stoves.
The initiative, which was unveiled yesterday in Mbuyuni Village, is part of MAIPAC’s broader strategy to promote the use of clean and safe energy.
It also aligns with the national campaign spearheaded by President Samia Suluhu Hassan to accelerate access to alternative energy solutions across the country.
Speaking at the launch, which also marked the inauguration of the Smile Youth and Women Support Organization (SYWSO), Member of Parliament for Monduli, Mr Fred Lowassa, commended both MAIPAC and SYWSO for their commitment to supporting underserved communities.
“This is a commendable example of how local organisations can contribute to national development efforts,” said Mr Lowassa.
“The work being done by MAIPAC and SYWSO reflects the same spirit of compassion we saw in the late Reginald Mengi, who always prioritised giving back to society.”he added
In addition to the gas stoves, the event also saw the distribution of bicycles for persons with disabilities, walking aids, and school supplies, supported by SYWSO and the MATT Foundation.
Mr Lowassa expressed delight at the involvement of media professionals in community development initiatives.
“It brings me joy to see my long-time friend, veteran journalist Mussa Juma, leading such impactful work. Many of us grew up reading his stories in Mwananchi. Seeing him now leading a social transformation effort in Monduli is truly inspiring.”he added
He also outlined key government interventions in the district, including a TSh 27 billion water supply project that will benefit Nanja Ward and 13 surrounding villages, as well as ongoing rehabilitation of three kilometres of road infrastructure in Mbuyuni.
Mr Lowassa further noted that a long-standing land dispute between residents and the Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF) has now been resolved, following his discussions with President Samia.
“I urge the people of Monduli to support President Samia in the upcoming general election,” he said. “Her administration has delivered tangible progress in health, education, infrastructure, and pastoral support.”
MAIPAC founder and Executive Director Mr Mussa Juma thanked all stakeholders who contributed to the initiative, noting that the support came entirely from Tanzanian organisations and businesses committed to sustainable development.
“Our work is made possible by local partners who believe in empowering communities using local solutions,” said Mr Juma.
“We encourage more institutions to join us in scaling up the distribution of clean cooking stoves, especially in indigenous areas.”he added
He also highlighted MAIPAC’s ongoing projects in Longido, Karatu and Monduli, including the completed fencing of the Kabambe water source in Selela Village.
This effort is part of a larger conservation initiative funded by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) through the Small Grants Programme under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and coordinated by the Vice President’s Office (Environment).
As part of the same initiative, MAIPAC plans to launch the second volume of a book documenting traditional knowledge and practices from the Hadzabe, Datoga and Maasai communities, focusing on environmental conservation, forest protection and water resource management.
Speaking at the event, Ms Fauzia Omar, a Community Development Officer from the Monduli District Council, commended MAIPAC and SYWSO for their efforts and encouraged them to expand their outreach to all 62 villages in the district.
“We welcome more collaboration between civil society organisations and the government, especially in addressing issues like gender-based violence and improving access to education and clean energy,” she said.
