Govt, Oryx Gas intensify push for clean cooking energy

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Ministry of Energy has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all Tanzanians adopt clean cooking energy, phasing out the use of firewood and charcoal, which pose serious health and environmental risks.

Speaking in Dar es Salaam on Thursday during the launch of the Gesi Yente campaign by Oryx Gas, the Ministry’s Director for Clean Cooking Energy, Mr Nolasco Mlay, commended stakeholders, including Oryx Gas, for playing a pivotal role in advancing the government’s clean energy agenda.

He said the government’s strategy aims for 84 per cent of Tanzanians to be using clean cooking energy by 2034, replacing charcoal and firewood with alternatives such as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

“Unsustainable energy sources like charcoal and firewood cause severe environmental degradation, with many trees cut down for fuel. We are determined to shift households to clean cooking energy, and partners like Oryx Gas, which operates nationwide, are helping us make that transition a reality,” Mr Mlay said.

He noted that the government, in collaboration with stakeholders, is working to provide subsidies to make gas more affordable and accessible. Plans are also underway to reduce taxes on clean energy products to lower market prices and enable wider adoption.

Oryx Gas Tanzania Managing Director, Araman Benoit, said many families still rely on charcoal, firewood, and kerosene, which contribute to respiratory diseases, environmental destruction, and long-term economic strain.

“With the Gesi Yente campaign, we aim to recover unused gas cylinders from homes and the market, refurbish them, and return them to use. These cylinders are valuable resources that can help families cook safely, quickly, and cost-effectively,” Mr Benoit said.

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He added that the campaign will reward participants with prizes such as motorcycles, bicycles, cooking sets, and school bags, while urging the public to embrace LPG as part of supporting President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision for clean energy adoption.

“This is the time for us, as a nation, to take action. If you have an unused gas cylinder at home, bring it back to the market and be part of the change. For those who have not yet started using gas, this is your chance to make the switch. Together, we can build a safer, healthier, and environmentally friendly Tanzania,” Benoit emphasised