By Our Reporter, Arusha
The government has renewed its call for communities to adopt clean cooking energy technologies as part of ongoing efforts to safeguard public health, protect the environment, and promote sustainable economic growth.
Speaking during a Form Four graduation ceremony at Moringe Sokoine Secondary School in Monduli District, Arusha Region, the Director for Clean Cooking Energy at the Ministry of Energy, Nolasco Mlay, said many Tanzanian households still rely heavily on charcoal and firewood, which have negative impacts on health, the environment, and household income.
“Research shows that smoke from firewood and charcoal contributes to respiratory diseases, particularly among women and children. Excessive tree cutting for charcoal production also worsens drought and accelerates climate change,” said Mr. Mlay.
He explained that the continued use of traditional cooking fuels also has economic and educational implications, as many people especially women and girls spend long hours collecting firewood instead of engaging in income-generating activities or studying.
Mr. Mlay urged students to become ambassadors of clean cooking technologies by sensitising their families and communities about the benefits of switching to cleaner alternatives such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), electricity, and improved cookstoves.
“I encourage you to learn about new technologies, including the production of improved cookstoves, biogas systems for livestock keepers, and alternative charcoal production methods,” he said.
Parents, students, and community members at the event commended the Ministry of Energy for its awareness efforts, saying the session provided valuable insights into the health, environmental, and economic advantages of using clean energy.
They said the knowledge gained would help promote behavioural change at the household level, contributing to the government’s broader goal of ensuring access to modern and sustainable energy for all Tanzanians.
