The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Energy and Minerals has hailed the Rural Energy Agency (REA) for its strong performance in expanding access to electricity and clean cooking solutions, describing the agency as a key driver of Tanzania’s energy transformation.
Committee Chairperson Subira Mgalu made the remarks on April 22, 2026, after touring the REA pavilion at the 2026 Energy Week exhibition held at the Parliamentary grounds in Dodoma.
She said REA has effectively carried forward the vision of Samia Suluhu Hassan by ensuring that clean cooking energy reaches more Tanzanians, particularly in rural communities where the need remains greatest.
Mgalu emphasized that continued public education and awareness campaigns are critical to accelerating the adoption of clean cooking energy, in line with the National Clean Cooking Energy Strategy.
She noted that the strategy is not only about environmental protection but also about improving public health and reducing the burden on women who traditionally rely on firewood and charcoal.
She further stated that Members of Parliament, including her committee, will take a more active role in promoting clean energy use, leveraging their growing understanding of its economic and social benefits to mobilize communities nationwide.
On rural electrification, Mgalu pointed to significant milestones already achieved, noting that electricity has reached all villages across the country.
She added that REA is now focusing on extending power supply to vitongoji (hamlets), marking the next phase in ensuring universal access to electricity.
Members of Parliament who visited the REA booth echoed her sentiments, expressing confidence in the agency’s implementation of energy projects and its contribution to improving livelihoods, boosting small businesses, and supporting inclusive development in rural Tanzania.
Their remarks underscore growing parliamentary backing for REA’s initiatives, positioning the agency as central to delivering affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy to all Tanzanians.
