TANZANIA has gainmed in its global standing with efforts in promoting clean cooking energy, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has declared.

He made the remarks on Tuesdayat the Kizimkazi Declaration festival, entailing the distribution of 1,000 gas stoves as part of the clean cooking energy initiative, held at Kilimahewa Majumbakumi in his native Ruangwa constituency, Lindi Region.

He stressed the need for the entire public to lemd support to President Samia Suluhi Hassan as this agenda was largerly her personal initiative. “The world has recognized Tanzania by hosting a major clean energy summit here. Let us not fall behind; let us be leaders," he urged.

This initiative is based on recognizing the vital role of clean energy in safeguarding human health and protecting the environment, he said.

As a result of these efforts, international organizations have expressed interest in supporting the initiative, including organizing a major African clean energy summit held in Tanzania in the outgoing year, he recalled.

 "We must stand behind the president in this campaign and ensure that we lead the way in adopting clean energy across Africa," he emphasised, while observers point out that Tanzania is lagging behind in renewable energy initiatives.

Experts say that some wind, biogas or solar energy installations can be a bit costly at the start, bnt their maintenance and assured flow of energy is more sustainable. 

The premier appealed to local government authorities to embrace the clean cooking energy agenda and promote the use of clean energy sources, pointing at electricity, gas and what is known as eco-friendly charcoal.

Zainab Telack, the regional commissioner, emarked that the Kizimkazi Declaration would be transformative for women by improving access to clean cooking energy.

Hawa Mpinga, a beneficiary of the gas cylinder distribution programme residing at Nachingwea ward, said that they will be less exposed to health complications arising from using unclean energy. The smoke from firewood has severe effects on the eyes, she said

Of the 1,000 gas cylinders distributed, 800 units were donated by Bongo FM, a subsidiary of the Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC), and 200 stoves domated by Taifa Gas.

The government has set a ten-year national clean cooking strategy where 80o per cent  of households will be applying clean cooking solutions by 2034.