Tanzania is making significant strides in promoting clean cooking energy, aiming to protect forests, reduce health risks, and cut costs for institutions and households nationwide.
Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the launch of the Clean Cooking Energy Program for the Prisons Service at Karanga Prison, emphasized the environmental and economic benefits of switching to clean cooking energy.
“Traditional cooking fuels not only threaten our health through smoke and harmful chemicals but also lead to large-scale deforestation. By adopting clean cooking solutions, we safeguard both our forests and public health,” said Prime Minister Majaliwa.
Since 2024, the Prisons Service has reduced its consumption of firewood by more than 50%, cutting costs significantly while preserving local forests.
“Our goal is that by 2034, 80 percent of Tanzanians will use clean cooking energy, benefiting themselves, their families, and future generations,” he added.
The Prime Minister also praised the Rural Energy Agency (REA) for implementing the National Strategy for Clean Cooking Energy and expanding rural electrification.
REA has supported institutions across the country in adopting clean energy, now reaching even the most remote communities.
REA Board Chairman, retired Major General Jacob Kingu, highlighted the agency’s efforts to build infrastructure and promote clean energy adoption in collaboration with the Prisons Service.
Commissioner General of Prisons Jeremiah Katungu expressed gratitude for the government’s support, describing the transition as a model for other institutions serving large populations.
Prime Minister Majaliwa called on the private sector and all Tanzanians to participate actively in the campaign for clean cooking energy, stressing that the initiative is not only a matter of convenience but also a vital step toward environmental protection, better health, and long-term savings.
