Charcoal sales in Tanzania reached Sh5.73 billion in September 2024, a 100% increase from last year, highlighting ongoing reliance amidst clean energy initiatives. A decrease in quarterly sales indicates seasonal patterns. Experts stress improving affordability and accessibility of clean energy alternatives to achieve the goal of 80% clean energy usage by 2034.
Recent data from the Bank of Tanzania’s (BoT) report for the quarter ending September 2024 reveals a significant surge in charcoal sales, which reached Sh5.73 billion, a 100% increase from last year’s Sh2.94 billion. This trend persists amidst ongoing initiatives to promote clean cooking energy. However, the report indicates a 39.30% drop in sales from the previous quarter, signifying seasonal fluctuations in consumption.
The BoT’s report, published in March 2025, has incited energy sector stakeholders to suggest measures aimed at curtailing charcoal use. Key recommendations include increasing public awareness of clean energy alternatives, addressing cost barriers, and improving accessibility to these energy sources nationwide, with a focus on achieving an 80% clean cooking energy usage target by 2034.
The South-Eastern zone leads in charcoal sales at Sh3.68 billion, constituting 64.22% of the national figure. Trailing are the Central region with Sh856.6 million, and the Northern region at Sh775.6 million. The Lake Zone and Dar es Salaam reported the lowest sales at Sh410.9 million and Sh12.6 million, respectively.
Dr. Lutengano Mwinuka from the University of Dodoma highlights that much of Tanzania’s population resides in rural areas, where clean energy access is limited. He advocates for promoting energy-efficient stoves to minimize charcoal and firewood consumption, while encouraging the use of biomass and agricultural waste as alternatives. He states that initiatives should address the unique energy challenges faced by rural communities.
Echoing this, Dr. Donald Mmari, Executive Director of Repoa, notes that rural awareness campaigns need improvement. He insists that while advocating clean energy benefits is vital, ensuring the affordability and accessibility of alternative sources is paramount.
Professor Aurelia Kamuzora from Mzumbe University emphasizes the need for research to assess Tanzanians’ financial capability concerning gas prices. She argues that until the cost of charcoal exceeds that of gas, significant shifts won’t occur due to the high costs associated with gas processing and transportation.
Dr. Mmari argues for making alternative energy more affordable and accessible, particularly for low-income populations. He suggests evaluating transportation and production costs, while Dr. Mwinuka emphasizes reviewing gas pricing policies and adjusting tax strategies to promote wider adoption of clean energy.
The surge in charcoal sales in Tanzania underscores persistent reliance on traditional energy sources, despite efforts to transition to clean cooking alternatives. Addressing cost barriers and enhancing accessibility to clean energy are essential for catalyzing this transition. Increased public awareness, especially in rural regions, and adjustments in pricing policies could facilitate a more robust shift towards cleaner energy solutions. Key stakeholders in the energy sector must collaborate to strategize and implement effective measures to support this goal.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
