The Petroleum Bulk Procurement Agency (PBPA) has stepped up efforts to support Tanzania’s transition to clean cooking energy by distributing electric cooking stoves to its staff, as part of a broader national drive to promote safer, cleaner, and more sustainable household energy use.
The initiative aligns with government efforts to reduce dependence on firewood and charcoal, which continue to drive deforestation, environmental degradation, and health risks linked to indoor air pollution.
It also supports national clean energy goals aimed at increasing the use of modern cooking solutions across the country.
Speaking during the distribution exercise, PBPA Director of Operations, Engineer Bruno Tarimo, said the initiative reflects the agency’s commitment to supporting government policies on clean cooking energy while promoting practical awareness among citizens.
He said PBPA is contributing to the national target of ensuring that at least 80 percent of Tanzanians use clean cooking energy by 2034.
He added that distributing electric pressure cookers to staff is a practical step toward encouraging behavior change within institutions and communities.
“These stoves are not only for personal use, but also a learning tool. We expect our staff to become ambassadors of clean cooking energy in their households and communities,” said Engineer Tarimo.
He noted that the government continues to prioritize clean cooking energy due to its importance in protecting the environment, improving public health, and supporting sustainable development.
He explained that reducing reliance on traditional fuels will help conserve forests and reduce respiratory illnesses caused by smoke, especially among women and children.
PBPA Clean Cooking Desk Officer, Hilda Kowero, said the government has developed a dedicated clean cooking strategy aimed at promoting environmentally friendly technologies and improving the quality of life for citizens.
She said the use of electric cooking stoves helps reduce harmful smoke emissions while improving cooking efficiency and saving time.
She also noted that pressure cookers are cost-effective when used properly, making them suitable for both urban and semi-urban households.
As part of the initiative, PBPA provided special training to staff on the safe and effective use of the electric stoves.
The training covered safe electricity use, energy-saving practices, proper handling of appliances, and efficient cooking methods using pressure cookers.
The training is intended to ensure that beneficiaries not only use the equipment safely but also pass on the knowledge to their families and communities, helping to expand awareness and adoption of clean cooking technologies.
PBPA said empowering staff with both equipment and knowledge is aimed at creating clean cooking champions who will help drive wider community adoption of modern energy solutions.
Ms. Kowero added that PBPA will continue working with government institutions, development partners, and other stakeholders to strengthen awareness campaigns and improve access to clean cooking energy across the country.
She emphasized that collective efforts from all sectors of society are essential to achieving Tanzania’s clean energy goals and building healthier, more sustainable communities.
