The Rural Energy Agency (REA) is intensifying efforts to promote clean cooking energy in Tanzania, with alternative charcoal emerging as a key solution.
The initiative aligns with the government’s National Clean Cooking Energy Strategy, which targets 80 percent of Tanzanians using clean cooking fuels by 2034.
The call was made on February 28, 2026, by Ambassador Major General (Retired) Jacob Kingu, Chairman of the Rural Energy Board (REB), during a visit to the Mzinga Company plant in Morogoro.
He was accompanied by senior REA management to witness firsthand the production of alternative charcoal technology at the facility.
Amb. Kingu stressed that clean cooking energy is central to the government’s agenda under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, aiming to reduce reliance on traditional fuels and improve household energy safety.
“Promoting alternative charcoal will enable us to reach the target of 80 percent of Tanzanians using clean cooking energy by 2034. This is not just a goal; it is a national priority that can transform our country socially, economically, and environmentally,” he said.
Brigadier General Seif Hamisi, Chief Executive Officer of Mzinga Company, expressed gratitude to REA for the visit, highlighting the importance of stakeholder engagement in expanding clean energy adoption.
He noted that the company is conducting research and engaging partners to acquire modern technologies for large-scale production of alternative charcoal.
Amiri Msangi, the Alternative Charcoal Project Supervisor at Mzinga, said the plant is exploring environmentally friendly and efficient production methods.
“Once fully operational, our facility will not only supply alternative charcoal to meet growing demand but also contribute to the economic empowerment of Tanzanians and generate income for the company,” he said.
Experts say alternative charcoal offers a cleaner, more sustainable option compared to traditional charcoal and firewood, reducing indoor air pollution and deforestation.
With government backing and strategic partnerships, Tanzania is poised to make significant progress toward its clean cooking energy goals.