The government of Tanzania has taken a major step towards promoting clean energy adoption in households by launching a subsidised cooking gas distribution programme in the Manyara Region.
The initiative, officially unveiled on Friday, July 11, 2025, by Regional Commissioner Queen Sendiga, aims to reduce reliance on charcoal and firewood, and promote environmentally friendly and health-conscious cooking practices.
At the launch event held in Katesh town, Hanang District, Ms Sendiga oversaw the distribution of 3,000 fully equipped gas cylinders sold at a highly subsidised price of TSh 17,500 (approx. $6.70). In total, the programme is set to distribute 16,275 cylinders across the region.
"This programme is about equity and sustainability," Ms Sendiga said. "We want to ensure that every Tanzanian household, especially low-income families, can transition to safer, cleaner cooking options without being burdened by cost."
The regional commissioner called on all district leaders to ensure transparency and fairness in the rollout. She warned that any attempts by traders or agents to inflate prices would be met with stern action.
“We will not allow dishonest practices to undermine this government-led effort. All cylinders must be sold at the approved subsidised price. This is a public good, not an opportunity for profiteering,” she said.
The subsidised gas programme is part of a nationwide campaign by President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration to tackle environmental degradation and public health challenges linked to traditional cooking methods.
According to government data, over 80% of Tanzanian households still rely on biomass fuels such as wood and charcoal for cooking, a practice contributing significantly to deforestation and indoor air pollution.
By lowering the initial cost of switching to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), the government hopes to accelerate behavioural change, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas.
The long-term goal is to cut down the rate of tree-felling for fuel and reduce respiratory illnesses caused by exposure to smoke from open fires.
Environmentalists and health experts have welcomed the move, describing it as a practical and timely intervention.
However, they stress the importance of sustained public education and follow-up support to ensure widespread adoption and proper usage.
The Manyara launch marks the latest milestone in Tanzania’s clean energy journey—one that seeks to balance economic development, environmental sustainability, and the well-being of its people.