TZ hailed for energy leadership
ZAMBIA: TANZANIA has been recognised as a regional leader in advancing Africa’s energy transition, with Zambia’s President, Hakainde Hichilema, citing the country’s progress in clean cooking energy as a model for the continent.
Speaking at the close of the 13th Zambia International Mining and Energy Conference (ZIMEC), Hichilema said Tanzania’s efforts under President Samia Suluhu Hassan are helping to drive practical solutions that expand access to sustainable energy while improving livelihoods.
He said that Tanzania is among countries taking concrete steps to implement the clean cooking agenda, a key priority in Africa’s broader push to reduce reliance on traditional fuels such as firewood and charcoal.
“Tanzania is showing leadership in practical energy transition efforts, especially in clean cooking solutions that directly improve people’s lives,” Hichilema said.
The Zambian leader also pointed to strengthening cooperation between Tanzania and Zambia, saying the two countries are deepening collaboration through strategic infrastructure development and policy alignment aimed at boosting regional trade and efficiency.
He said ongoing investments in infrastructure corridors linking Southern African countries are expected to enhance the movement of goods, including minerals and energy resources, across borders, positioning the region for greater economic integration.
ALSO READ: BUSINESS BLUEPRINT: Mwinyi backs partnerships
During the conference, Tanzania’s Deputy Minister for Minerals, Dr Steven Kiruswa, presented the importance of strengthening regional infrastructure corridors to improve productivity and competitiveness in both the mining and energy sectors.
The conference also highlighted the growing role of Africa in supplying critical minerals needed for the global energy transition. Zambia, for instance, has set a target to increase copper production to three million tonnes by 2030, underlining the sector’s importance to its economy.
Across the continent, millions of households still rely on traditional cooking methods, posing health, environmental and economic challenges. In response, countries including Tanzania are promoting cleaner alternatives such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and other modern energy solutions.
In recent years, Tanzania has intensified efforts to expand access to clean energy through policy reforms, investment in infrastructure and regional cooperation, positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s transition to sustainable energy.
The ZIMEC conference brought together policymakers, industry leaders and investors to explore strategies for sustainable development in the mining and energy sectors.
