Women in Kilimanjaro Region are increasingly embracing clean cooking energy, praising its role in lowering household expenses, saving time, and protecting family health.
Their experiences were highlighted on September 16 at a prize-giving ceremony organized by Oryx Gas Company under its ongoing “Yente Jaza na Ushinde” campaign, which promotes the use of clean energy.
Winners received a range of prizes, including modern gas stoves, cookware sets, cash awards, and a brand-new motorbike.
The initiative seeks to encourage households to shift from traditional fuels such as firewood and charcoal, which contribute to deforestation and pose health risks, particularly respiratory illnesses.
For many women, the transition has been transformative.“Using clean energy like gas is not only easy but also beneficial. It reduces smoke-related illnesses and makes cooking faster, especially for working women who arrive home late,” said Lovenes Madandi, a resident of Bendera Majengo in Same District.
She noted that the motorbike she won through the campaign would also boost her family’s income-generating activities.
Another winner, Illen Machenje, said receiving a modern gas stove had changed her daily routine.
“With gas, I can cook faster and manage my time better. It takes just minutes compared to the hour I would spend using firewood,” she explained.
“I no longer need to search for firewood or charcoal, which makes life much easier, especially for mothers.”she added
According to Oryx Gas Northern Zone Sales and Marketing Manager, Gamu Kimollo, the promotion is part of broader efforts to increase awareness and adoption of clean cooking solutions across Tanzania.
“Today we have awarded four winners with a motorbike, two gas stoves, a gas cylinder, and a cash prize. These efforts are aimed at supporting the transition to clean energy for better health, environmental protection, and economic well-being,” he said.
Oryx Gas has been running similar initiatives in various regions, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable energy solutions that improve lives and reduce reliance on harmful traditional fuels.