Msalala District Council in Shinyanga region is witnessing a surge in clean cooking energy adoption, creating new business opportunities and expanding access to cooking gas. The initiative, aligned with Tanzania's goal to have 80% of households using clean cooking energy by 2034, is being propelled by community awareness campaigns and a network of local energy ambassadors. Taifa Gas Marketing Manager Mr. Oscar Shelukindo highlighted that the program has spurred increased gas usage, reducing reliance on charcoal and firewood while fostering environmental conservation and improved health outcomes. He credited Barrick Bulyanhulu Mine for its support and urged more residents to embrace clean cooking solutions.
Local energy agents are playing a pivotal role in the campaign, with Ms. Pilly Zubery recently receiving a motorcycle award for helping over 50 households transition to gas. The Energy Ambassador initiative, launched during World Environment Day, has trained 20 agents and distributed 320 gas cylinders to facilitate awareness and distribution. Taifa Gas Lake Zone Marketing Manager Ms. Hawa Omary noted a sustained rise in demand for clean cooking energy since the campaign began, signaling growing community acceptance of gas as a viable alternative. "This reflects a shift in consumer behavior and a commitment to sustainable practices," she said.
Ms. Zubery’s participation in the program has not only amplified her advocacy for clean energy but also expanded her business ventures. "The campaign has given me the tools and platform to reach more households while growing my enterprise," she stated. Barrick Bulyanhulu Community Relations Officer Ms. Mary Lupamba emphasized the company’s ongoing collaboration with stakeholders to advance environmental conservation and clean energy projects. The initiative is projected to boost demand for clean cooking technologies, generating opportunities for businesses in energy distribution, retail, and related services.
The push for clean cooking aligns with broader efforts to mitigate deforestation and health risks linked to traditional fuels. By prioritizing gas and other clean alternatives, Msalala’s progress underscores a model for scalable community-driven solutions. With continued stakeholder engagement, the district’s experience could inform national strategies to achieve Tanzania’s 2034 clean energy targets while fostering economic resilience in rural markets.
Msalala's Clean Cooking Initiative Spurs Local Business Growth, Expands Gas Access