Tanzania is accelerating clean cooking energy access, reducing reliance on charcoal and firewood. With targets of 75–80% access by 2034, partnerships like EnDev are creating jobs, improving health, and supporting climate action.
This fourfold increase highlights the impact of targeted government efforts, political commitment, and partnerships with development stakeholders and the private sector.
Commissioner of Electricity and Renewable Energy from the Ministry of Energy, Engineer Innocent Luoga, made the announcement today in Dar es Salaam during the 13th Anniversary Celebration of the Energising Development (EnDev) programme in Tanzania.
He stated that these achievements reflect Tanzania’s commitment to ensuring citizens have access to clean, safe, and affordable cooking energy.
Under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, clean cooking has been prioritized nationally and integrated into the National Development Vision 2050.
Engineer Luoga explained that the National Clean Cooking Strategy 2024–2034 aims to reach 80% access to clean cooking by 2034, while the National Energy Compact 2025–2030 targets 75% by 2030.
He added that despite progress, over 70% of Tanzanians still rely on firewood and charcoal, contributing to household air pollution, environmental degradation, and time burdens on women and children.
Through the EnDev programme, these challenges are being addressed by disseminating affordable and efficient cooking technologies, particularly the locally produced Jiko Matawi (improved wood stove).
These stoves reduce firewood use by up to 40%, improve household well-being, and support forest conservation and climate change mitigation efforts.
From 2013 to 2026, EnDev has facilitated access to solar lighting solutions for approximately 300,000 people and clean cooking solutions for 2 million people through improved stoves and electric cooking technologies.
The programme has enabled over 120 Jiko Matawi producers to operate across 20 regions, creating jobs and strengthening local entrepreneurship.
Engineer Luoga also praised the establishment of the National Improved Cookstoves Producers Association, emphasizing that the government will continue to foster an enabling environment through policy reforms, market development, and improved access to finance.
He stated that EnDev’s success provides a solid foundation for scaling clean energy solutions and improving the lives of millions of households across the country.
On her part, SNV Tanzania Director, Mary Rauscher, noted that for over a decade, EnDev has expanded access to clean, affordable, and sustainable energy to nearly 2 million people, especially in rural and underserved areas.
She added that through market-based approaches, the programme has stimulated private sector growth, empowered local entrepreneurs, and strengthened the entire value chain—from clean cooking to off-grid solar solutions.
Rauscher emphasized that sustainable development requires systemic transformations in the energy, agriculture, and water sectors.
She stated that SNV aims to strengthen institutions, enable inclusive markets, and address the root causes of inequality.
Gender equality and social inclusion, she stressed, are at the core of their work, ensuring that women, youth, and marginalized groups are not only stakeholders but also key drivers of change.