DAR ES SALAAM: WHEN it comes to cooking in Tanzanian households, there’s no denying that charcoal and firewood have long been the go-to sources of fuel. But, let’s face it, those old-school cooking methods are as outdated as a flip phone in the age of smartphones. The health risks? Off the charts. The environmental impact? Let’s not even go there. Enter Rafiki Briquettes, the clean cooking energy that’s changing the game for Tanzanians, and potentially saving lives along the way.
Dr Venance Mwasse, the Managing Director of the National Mining Corporation (STAMICO), has been leading this quiet revolution with his innovative, eco-friendly alternative: Rafiki Briquettes. He recently took the stage in Dar es Salaam to talk about how this clean energy solution is lighting the way to a healthier and more sustainable future for Tanzanians.
The clean cooking energy revolution
On December 22, 2024, Dr Mwasse wrapped up the “Clean and Safe Cooking Energy Week” at the Mwembeyanga grounds in Temeke District, Dar es Salaam. It was a week filled with awareness campaigns, public demonstrations, and of course, plenty of Rafiki Briquettes to go around. During his speech, Dr Mwasse didn’t mince words when describing the dire situation faced by many Tanzanians who still rely on harmful and traditional cooking fuels.
“Rafiki Briquettes are a game-changer. These aren’t just an alternative; they are the solution,” Dr Mwasse declared, with all the passion you’d expect from someone who’s been working tirelessly to make the world a cleaner, safer place.
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The briquettes, made from coal, have been researched by top Tanzanian universities and have passed all tests to prove they meet the nation’s energy needs. What’s more, they’re not only eco-friendly but also affordable—making them the perfect fit for a country looking to shift away from harmful fuels that harm both the health of the people and the environment.
What makes Rafiki Briquettes so special?
Let’s get to the heart of the matter—what makes Rafiki Briquettes stand out from the traditional charcoal we all know (and cough over)? For one, they’re made from coal, which, though a commonly used resource in Tanzania, is processed in a way that reduces harmful emissions. That means less smoke in your kitchen, fewer respiratory issues, and a cleaner environment.
And the best part? These briquettes are the result of research and innovation, backed by Tanzanian universities. So, they’re not some quick-fix fad. They’ve been tested and perfected, making them a reliable source of energy for homes and businesses alike.
Dr Mwasse proudly pointed out that STAMICO has already set up large-scale briquette production plants in Kisarawe District in Pwani Region and Kyela District in Mbeya Region, both coal-rich areas. The current production has reached 20,000 tons, and as demand increases, STAMICO is poised to scale up production, making Rafiki Briquettes more accessible to Tanzanians all over the country.
A revolution in the making
Let’s take a moment to talk about what this really means for Tanzania. You see, STAMICO’s initiative isn’t just about supplying briquettes—it’s about sparking a full-on revolution in how the country thinks about and uses energy. The importance of this revolution cannot be overstated, and it’s something the government is fully backing. In fact, the government has issued a directive that by December 31, 2024, all institutions serving more than 100 people must transition to clean energy. No more relying on the traditional, harmful charcoal or firewood.
The Mayor of Temeke Municipality, Abdalla Mtinika, couldn’t agree more. In his remarks, he applauded STAMICO for its direct involvement in the production and promotion of clean energy, noting that the introduction of Rafiki Briquettes is paving the way for significant environmental and health improvements.
“The shift to clean cooking energy is not just about reducing emissions—it’s about creating a lasting legacy for future generations. This is a revolution that will shape Tanzania’s future,” Mayor Mtinika said.
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It’s clear that this initiative isn’t just about making money; it’s about making a lasting, positive impact on Tanzanian society. And the clock is ticking. With the government’s deadline fast approaching, more and more people are starting to realize just how crucial it is to make the switch to cleaner, safer cooking options.
Why Rafiki Briquettes matter
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “It’s just briquettes, right? How much of a difference can that make?” Well, let’s break it down.
For one, millions of Tanzanians still rely on charcoal and firewood to cook their meals. And while these traditional fuels have been used for centuries, they come with a host of problems. First and foremost, they’re a health hazard. The smoke emitted from burning charcoal and firewood contributes to respiratory problems, particularly in women and children who are often exposed to it in enclosed kitchen spaces.
Then there’s the environmental impact. Charcoal production leads to deforestation, which contributes to soil erosion, biodiversity loss, and contributes to the overall degradation of the environment.
But Rafiki Briquettes? They tackle both problems at once. They burn cleaner, produce less smoke, and are made from locally sourced coal, which is processed in an environmentally-friendly way. Plus, they’re affordable, meaning even families on a budget can make the switch to cleaner cooking.
Looking to the future
As Dr Mwasse and his team at STAMICO continue to expand their production capabilities, the future looks bright for Rafiki Briquettes. Not only will more Tanzanians be able to access clean, affordable cooking energy, but they’ll also be doing their part to reduce the country’s carbon footprint and preserve the environment for future generations.
Of course, none of this would be possible without the support of local communities, government institutions, and the forward-thinking initiatives from STAMICO. The Clean and Safe Cooking Energy Week in Dar es Salaam was a huge step in spreading awareness, but the real work begins now—getting these briquettes into as many homes and businesses as possible.
If you’re still on the fence about whether to make the switch, consider this: your lungs, your wallet, and the planet will all thank you. Rafiki Briquettes are not just a product—they’re a movement.
Join the revolution
So, what can you do? It’s simple—make the switch to Rafiki Briquettes and become part of the clean cooking energy revolution. Whether you’re cooking for your family at home or running a larger institution, these briquettes are the solution you’ve been waiting for.
And, as Dr Mwasse so eloquently put it, “Rafiki Briquettes are not just a cleaner way to cook—they’re a lifesaver for Tanzanians.”
Let’s embrace this clean energy solution for a brighter, healthier, and more sustainable future. It’s time to cook smart, live better, and make a difference.
After all, who wouldn’t want to be a part of a revolution that’s as good for the planet as it is for your cooking? The future of energy is here, and it’s called Rafiki Briquettes.
