Dr Biteko calls on women to lead the clean cooking campaign

DAR ES SALAAM: THE government has called on women across the country to lead the clean cooking campaign that wants them to switch from firewood to electric and gas stoves.

This appeal was made today by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Dr. Doto Biteko, during a conference to promote the countrywide use of clean cooking technologies.

“Today, electric cooking stoves consume very little electricity, making them a viable and sustainable option for households,” Dr. Biteko emphasized. “Women should play a key role in implementing the National Clean Cooking Energy Strategy, which aims for 80 percent of the population to use cleaner energy sources by 2034.”

He further encouraged Tanzanians, particularly women, to switch to electric stoves, highlighting their affordability compared to other cooking technologies.

 “By adopting clean energy solutions, we not only save time and money but also contribute to environmental conservation. Reducing air pollution through cleaner cooking methods improves public health and supports sustainable development,” he added.

Eng Boniface Gissima Nyamo-Hanga, the Managing Director of Tanzania Electric Supply Company (TANESCO), expressed his excitement at seeing women from the Ministry of Energy actively participating in the conference.

 He praised their positive response and called for continued engagement with the clean energy initiative.

 Electric stoves are gaining popularity worldwide due to their energy efficiency, safety, and environmental benefits.

The transition to electric cooking is part of a broader movement to reduce reliance on traditional biomass fuels, such as firewood and charcoal, which are major contributors to deforestation, air pollution, and health risks.

In addition to the health and environmental benefits, electric stoves offer a practical solution in areas where deforestation is a growing concern.

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With the push for clean energy, Tanzania aims to improve the health and well-being of its citizens while meeting its long-term environmental and development goals. As part of this initiative, the government plans to provide financial incentives, educational programs, and infrastructure support to help households transition to clean cooking technologies.

 The adoption of electric stoves is not only a step toward improving domestic energy use but also contributes to broader global efforts to combat climate change.