Tackling the region’s energy transition requires practical, self-produced solutions, Alexander Mwalyoyo, Operations Manager at Kuja na Kushoka Tools Manufacturers Group, told Sputnik Africa.
"Our invention is practical because what we are doing is trying to make local solutions to our own local problems," Mwalyoyo explained.
His team uses readily available materials such as agricultural residues, industrial waste paper, and sugar molasses to create briquettes, while metal sheets and clay serve as key components in the construction of cookstoves. This approach not only makes clean cooking solutions more accessible, but also aligns with the Tanzanian government's commitment to energy efficiency.
Furthermore, Mwalyoyo highlighted the serious health hazards associated with relying on traditional charcoal for cooking. He emphasized that indoor air pollution from charcoal smoke contributes to respiratory diseases and even deaths, due to the inhalation of sulfur monoxide produced by unburnt charcoal.
"The transition is quite easy because a lot of people have seen the advantages of using these stoves and briquettes," he noted, explaining that alternative fuels like briquettes provide a cleaner and more sustainable solution while reducing dependence on wood-based charcoal.
The government has launched a National Clean Cooking Strategy (2024-2034) with a $1.7 billion investment aimed at transitioning households from charcoal and firewood to LPG and electricity. This strategy includes subsidies on LPG cylinders, electric cookstoves, and pressure cookers, as well as expanded electricity access.
"The uptake of these technologies is quite high at the moment, given that even the prices of the briquettes are almost the same or lower than naturally produced charcoal," the operations manager explained.
With government backing and increased local innovation, Tanzania is positioning itself for a major shift in household energy consumption.
“I’m quite sure 80 to 90% of Tanzanians will be using clean cooking technologies by 2034,” Mwalyoyo predicted, underscoring the potential for sustainable, locally driven energy solutions.