Kilimanjaro's Clean Cooking Crisis

Slow Progress in Kilimanjaro's Transition to Clean Cooking Energy

Kilimanjaro Region is facing challenges in its transition to clean cooking energy, with only a small fraction of public institutions currently utilizing cleaner alternatives to traditional firewood and charcoal. Despite national mandates and extended deadlines, adoption rates remain significantly below expectations.

The National Strategy and Delayed Implementation

The National Strategy for Clean Cooking Energy Use (2024–2034) aimed to eliminate the use of firewood and traditional charcoal in over 31,000 institutions that serve food to more than 100 people by January 2024. However, this ambitious target has faced repeated setbacks. The initial deadline was pushed to December 2024, and subsequently extended again to July 2025 by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa. The Prime Minister cited the need for institutions to incorporate clean cooking energy solutions into their budgets as the reason for the extension.

Low Adoption Rates

A recent monitoring report revealed that as of May 2025, only 25 out of 1,316 public institutions in Kilimanjaro had transitioned to clean cooking methods. This represents a mere two percent adoption rate, far short of the regional target of 104 institutions by December 2025. The institutions covered in the report include:

• 273 Secondary Schools
• 1,006 Primary Schools
• 21 Colleges
• 15 Hospitals
• 1 Elderly Care Centre

Kilimanjaro Regional Commissioner Nurdin Babu expressed concern over the slow progress, emphasizing the need for accelerated efforts to meet the government's objectives.

Government and Private Sector Initiatives

Despite the challenges, various initiatives are underway to promote clean cooking energy in the region. These include:

• Awareness Campaigns: Regional and council-level meetings are being used to educate institutions about the benefits and requirements of clean cooking energy.
• Private Sector Collaboration: Partnerships with gas companies have resulted in the provision of over 10,000 subsidized gas cylinders.
• Rural Energy Agency (REA) Support: REA has financed the construction of gas infrastructure in boarding schools across several districts.
• Budget Allocation: Council directors have been instructed to prioritize budget allocations for clean energy, particularly for institutions in urban areas and those serving students with special needs.
• Electricity Expansion: The Tanzania Electric Supply Company (Tanesco) plans to connect 90,000 new electricity customers in the region by the end of the year.
• Energy-Efficient Stoves: Tanesco distributed over 1,000 energy-efficient stoves during the Mwanamke Shupavu festival, promoting their use as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative.

Community Perspectives and Challenges

Despite the government's push for clean cooking energy, challenges persist at the community level.

• Cost Concerns: Many residents, particularly food vendors, find firewood to be a more affordable option than gas.
• Safety Fears: Concerns about gas explosions remain prevalent, hindering the adoption of gas stoves.
• Availability Issues: Some residents have switched to energy-efficient stoves and electricity due to the fluctuating availability and rising costs of firewood and charcoal.

Addressing Gas Safety and Supply

The Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) is working to address concerns about gas safety and supply. Efforts include:

• Public Education: Educating the public on the safe usage of gas to dispel myths and anxieties.
• Regulatory Environment: Creating a streamlined licensing process for gas traders to ensure proper supervision and safe distribution.
• Infrastructure Development: The upcoming Tanga mega gas storage facility, with a capacity of 35,000 tonnes, is expected to alleviate gas supply challenges in the region.

Alternative Solutions and Private Sector Involvement

Private sector companies are also playing a role in promoting clean cooking energy by offering alternative solutions such as rice husk briquettes, sawdust charcoal, and improved cookstoves. These alternatives aim to provide affordable, safe, and clean energy while reducing reliance on wood-based charcoal and mitigating deforestation.

The Path Forward

Expanding clean cooking in Kilimanjaro requires a multi-faceted approach involving government support, private sector innovation, and community engagement. Addressing cost barriers, safety concerns, and raising awareness are crucial steps toward achieving the national plan and creating a healthier and more sustainable environment. While progress has been slower than anticipated, ongoing investments and continuous awareness campaigns offer hope for a cleaner and more efficient energy future for the region.