Tanzania is set on a transformative path to ensure that 80 percent of households adopt clean, safe, and affordable cooking energy by 2034, according to the National Clean Cooking Energy Strategy.
Beyond addressing health and environmental concerns, the strategy is increasingly being seen as a tool for economic empowerment and social development.
The initiative comes at a time when traditional cooking methods—primarily open fires and charcoal stoves—continue to contribute to deforestation, household air pollution, and respiratory illnesses, particularly among women and children.
By promoting modern, cleaner cooking technologies, the government aims to reduce these risks while simultaneously creating a market for energy-efficient appliances, fuels, and related services.
Speaking during a Crown Sport program in Dar es Salaam, Acting Head of the Government Communications Unit at the Ministry of Energy, Neema Mbuja, emphasized that the strategy is designed to combine technology access with extensive awareness campaigns.
“Implementation will involve private sector partners, development organizations, and community institutions, including schools and prisons. This multi-sectoral approach ensures that the benefits of clean cooking energy reach both urban and rural households,” she explained.
Ms. Mbuja highlighted that awareness and behavior change are critical components.
National campaigns will leverage radio, television, social media, public exhibitions, and training for community leaders, journalists, and online influencers to educate citizens on the economic and health benefits of adopting modern cooking methods.
The strategy’s communication efforts are intended to address resistance to change and ensure households understand that cleaner energy solutions can be cost-effective in the long term.
From an economic perspective, Research Engineer at Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO), Samwel Kessy, noted that clean cooking energy has the potential to generate jobs and stimulate local industries.
“By expanding electricity access and partnering with the private sector, the government is facilitating the production, distribution, and maintenance of high-quality cooking equipment. This not only saves time and reduces fuel costs for households but also encourages entrepreneurship and small-scale businesses across the supply chain,” he said.
By integrating clean cooking energy into the broader energy infrastructure, Tanzania can foster private sector investments while improving energy efficiency nationwide.
This aligns with global climate commitments, as reducing reliance on wood and charcoal for cooking lowers greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to forest conservation. Moreover, cleaner cooking methods can reduce healthcare costs by preventing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases associated with indoor air pollution.
The strategy also highlights the role of social equity. Rural communities, often underserved in terms of energy access, stand to gain the most from affordable cooking solutions.
By prioritizing these areas, the government can address disparities while supporting inclusive growth. Schools, prisons, and community centers that adopt clean cooking technologies will serve as demonstration hubs, showing the practical benefits of modern energy solutions.
In essence, Tanzania’s National Clean Cooking Energy Strategy represents more than a public health or environmental initiative. It is a carefully designed framework that combines awareness, technology, and multi-stakeholder engagement to achieve health, environmental, and economic goals simultaneously.
