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Following a directive from the Office of the Vice President calling on institutions serving over 100 people to switch from unsafe cooking methods to clean energy, Sakura Girls Secondary School has officially joined the national list of institutions using clean cooking energy.
The recognition came on February 5, 2026, when a team of experts from the Ministry of Energy visited the school to inspect its LPG and gas vaporizer project, funded by KAGLA Eco Friendly in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
During the visit, Headmaster Thomas Rubeni explained that the school’s location in the mountains exposes students to cold mornings, evenings, and rainy seasons, which can affect their health.
He said the gas system would provide hot water and reduce smoke in the environment, as firewood use had previously contributed to indoor air pollution.
“The availability of clean cooking energy will also help our cooks prepare meals efficiently and on time,” he added.
The school’s cook, Rahel Elisante, said the switch to gas has eliminated several environmental and health challenges.
“We are very happy and grateful to have gas. Previously, firewood would often be damp during rainy and cold seasons, producing smoke and delaying meal preparation. Now, gas makes our daily work much easier,” she said.
Student representative Lidya Lebayo noted that access to gas ensures hot water at all times and allows students to enjoy meals free from smoke odors.
Sakura Girls’ adoption of clean cooking energy is part of Tanzania’s broader effort to promote sustainable energy solutions in public institutions, improving health, efficiency, and environmental protection.
