Prison officers in Singida Region have committed to supporting the government’s campaign on clean cooking energy, recognizing its potential to address critical environmental and health challenges.
During a recent ceremony, 395 gas cylinders of 15 kilograms each and two-plate gas stoves were distributed to the officers.
This initiative, led by the Rural Energy Board (REB), reflects a strategic push to replace traditional firewood and charcoal with cleaner alternatives across institutional settings.
ACP Felix Mwakyusa, Singida Regional Prison Commander, emphasized the significance of this transition, noting that the government’s support under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership is pivotal in reducing dependence on biomass fuel in prisons.
“This intervention not only promotes cleaner energy use but also enhances the welfare of prison staff, who are now ambassadors for this initiative in their communities,” he said.
Environmental experts highlight that the shift to clean cooking energy is crucial amid growing concerns over deforestation and climate variability in Tanzania.
Engineer Sophia Mgonja, REB Board Representative, pointed out that widespread use of firewood contributes to environmental degradation, including reduced rainfall and prolonged droughts in some regions.
“Promoting clean cooking energy is a strategic measure to conserve forests and mitigate adverse climate impacts,” she explained.
The Rural Energy Agency (REA) continues to advance this agenda through targeted distributions and public awareness, aligning with the national goal of achieving 80 percent clean cooking energy adoption by 2034, as outlined in the National Strategy.
Engineer Emmanuel Yesaya, Acting Technical Assistance Manager at REA, underscored that institutional uptake, such as in prisons, sets a precedent for broader societal acceptance.
Gender considerations also play a role in the initiative, as clean cooking reduces indoor air pollution, which disproportionately affects women and children.
Dr. Joseph Sambali, REA’s Gender Specialist, highlighted that the distribution of gas cylinders and stoves in Singida prisons is part of a broader effort to address such health disparities.
This campaign marks a significant step in Tanzania’s environmental and public health policy, as it integrates clean energy adoption within government institutions, creating models that can influence community behavior and contribute to sustainable development goals.
