The Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC) has stepped up its support for the National Clean Cooking Strategy, connecting more than 3,000 Tanzanians to natural gas systems as part of efforts to expand access to affordable and environmentally friendly cooking solutions.
TPDC’s Acting Director of Oil and Gas Business, Engineer Emmanuel Gilbert, revealed the developments yesterday during an interview on ITV’s Kumekucha programme in Dar es Salaam, where he underscored the government’s commitment to accelerating the shift toward clean household energy.
“Clean cooking is central to the national goal of ensuring that citizens use safe, reliable and environmentally friendly energy,” Eng. Gilbert said.
“TPDC has so far connected approximately 3,000 households to natural gas systems, which remain more affordable and dependable, especially in Dar es Salaam, Lindi and Mtwara.”he added
He said the clean cooking drive is aligned with international commitments to curb carbon emissions and address climate change. Tanzania’s target is for 80 percent of households to use clean cooking energy by 2034.
Eng. Gilbert explained that TPDC is working to widen access in both urban and rural areas, including for low-income communities.
He noted the corporation’s collaboration with stakeholders distributing LPG cylinders in rural areas, where gas meters that allow customers to buy gas by the kilogram have made clean energy more accessible and budget-friendly.
He added that the government, under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, is prioritising public education to ensure that citizens understand the benefits of clean cooking energy.
Efforts are also underway to work closely with partners to increase the supply of clean cooking equipment at affordable prices, especially in rural communities.
Eng. Gilbert called on citizens to transition to clean cooking and move away from harmful traditional fuels, stressing that the national strategy seeks to reduce smoke-related respiratory diseases, preserve forests and spur economic opportunities through investments in clean energy technologies and equipment.
