JKT implements clean cooking directive by 90pc

DODOMA: THE National Service (JKT) has said that it has already implemented its clean cooking initiatives by 90 per cent at all its 22 military camps and is set to complete the transition to sustainable energy sources well ahead of the national 2034 deadline.

The new development appears to be a groundbreaking initiative poised to redefine cooking practices across military camps, thanks to an ambitious 5.7bn/- clean cooking project aimed at phasing out firewood and charcoal in favour of sustainable energy alternatives.

JKT is currently partnering with the Rural Energy Agency (REA) to implement the project as it implements a directive from the government that all institutions feeding over 100 people move from using firewood and charcoal to clean cooking solutions.

In implementing the directive, on September 4 2024, JKT inked a pivotal contract with REA, setting in motion a two-year project designed to enhance clean cooking energy usage in 22 military camps by 2034.

This transformative effort is backed by substantial funding from the stateowned REA, which will contribute 76 per cent of the total project cost, with JKT shouldering the remaining 24 per cent.

The government, in collaboration with various stakeholders prepared the National Clean Cooking Strategy, which provides guidance for the country’s transition to using clean cooking solutions. The strategy aims to ensure that 80 per cent of Tanzanians use clean cooking solutions by the year 2034.

According to JKT’s acting Head of Administration (HANS) Colonel Juma Mrai, already, the National Service has implemented the government’s strategy by 90 per cent, affirming that the military aims to reach its objectives ahead of the 2034 deadline.

In the JKT, REA project, he noted, the first phase of the project commenced in April 2025, with REA already disbursing 50 per cent of its pledged funding. The initiative is structured in three phases, during which REA will provide 30 per cent and 20 per cent of funding in phases two and three, respectively.

His remarks were made during the just concluded three-day seminar aimed at training 66 JKT staff from across the country, equipping them with essential skills for effective project execution.

In tandem with this clean cooking initiative, REA has also signed an agreement with the State Mining Corporation (STAMICO) to promote the production of alternative charcoal known as Rafiki Briquettes.

Equipment for producing these environmentally friendly briquettes has already been distributed across all JKT camps nationwide.

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The collaboration extends beyond REA and JKT, involving key stakeholders such as the Tanzanian Kishoka Tools Manufacturers Group Company, Envotec Services Company and STAMICO, all contributing to this vital project.

According to REA’s Director of Technology, Engineer Advera Mwijage, the State-owned rural energy body is well committed to support President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s Sixth Phase Government in advancing the clean cooking agenda.