The forum comes at a critical moment as Tanzania advances efforts to transform its energy sector in support of the government’s target to ensure that by 2034, at least 80 percent of households nationwide are using clean cooking energy
Dar es Salaam. Mwananchi Communications Limited (MCL), in partnership with key stakeholders, is today hosting the 2025 Clean Cooking Energy Forum at the Mlimani City Conference Centre in Dar es Salaam.
The forum comes at a critical moment as Tanzania advances efforts to transform its energy sector in support of the government’s target to ensure that by 2034, at least 80 percent of households nationwide are using clean cooking energy.
The National Clean Cooking Energy Strategy (2024-2034) clearly emphasizes the role of stakeholders, particularly the private sector, in achieving this target.
Speaking about the event, MCL’s Head of Marketing, Corporate and Sustainability, Edson Sosten, said the private sector has a responsibility to work closely with the government to ensure reliable and sustainable access to clean cooking energy, while also raising public awareness.
“Most Tanzanians still rely on firewood and charcoal for cooking, which causes serious health, economic and environmental problems.
Household air pollution contributes to respiratory diseases, while deforestation continues to damage the environment. This is a major challenge that requires urgent action,” said Sosten, underscoring MCL’s commitment to driving the agenda.
According to Sosten, the forum brings together policymakers from the government, private sector actors, civil society organizations and development partners. The goal is to strengthen collaboration and exchange knowledge on how to expand access to clean cooking energy across the country.
Key topics of discussion include, from Policy to Action, reviewing national strategies and frameworks for clean cooking energy and innovation, Investment and Inclusion, exploring sustainable financing, innovative business models and new technologies that can accelerate access to clean cooking solutions.
MCL emphasized that these changes cannot be achieved without collective effort from all sectors, with women and youth placed at the centre of the transition process.
Ultimately, the forum aims to ensure that by 2034, eight out of every ten households in Tanzania have access to clean cooking energy, a milestone that will safeguard health, protect the environment and promote social well-being.
