Oryx Gas Tanzania, partners commit to rural gas distribution

Muheza. Oryx Gas Tanzania, alongside other stakeholders, has pledged its continued support for the government’s clean cooking energy campaign by distributing gas cylinders to rural areas, improving accessibility for citizens.

The company reaffirmed its commitment during President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s visit to the Oryx Gas Tanzania booth in Muheza District as she was touring Tanga Region.

President Hassan launched the National Clean Cooking Energy Campaign at an event held at Jitegemee Grounds, Muheza District, Tanga Region.

“When gas cylinders run out, they are often left inside the house like unused furniture,” she said during her address to the public.

“I have met with Oryx Gas Tanzania and other players, and they have assured me they will continue their distribution efforts to ensure people can keep using them,” President Hassan added, commending stakeholders’ contribution, particularly Oryx Gas Tanzania.

While visiting the pavilion, Oryx Gas Tanzania’s Clean Cooking Energy Projects Manager, Mr Peter Ndomba, briefed the President on the company’s significant efforts to support the clean cooking energy campaign.

He stated that their strategy is focused on ensuring every household has access to cooking gas cylinders.

“We thank President Hassan for championing clean cooking energy. Oryx Gas has been a key stakeholder, and we have worked hard since the campaign became a national goal to encourage citizens to adopt clean cooking solutions,” he said.

“We have expanded our infrastructure for distributing Oryx Gas cylinders, particularly in rural areas. Oryx Gas is now available in every town, district, and village. We have also supported initiatives to promote clean energy use, especially helping women in communities,” he added.

Addressing a public rally, President Hassan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating an environment conducive to private sector participation, ensuring affordable access to clean cooking energy across Tanzania.

She highlighted the importance of subsidised gas cylinders in achieving the government’s goal of ensuring 80 percent of Tanzanians use clean cooking energy by 2034.

“We have started providing subsidies to gas processing companies to stabilise prices in the long run. Additionally, we are offering a 50 percent subsidy on gas stoves, with buyers covering the remaining cost,” said President Hassan.

She further explained that the distribution of gas cylinders is part of a broader strategy to promote clean cooking nationwide, protecting both the environment and public health.

“Our primary focus is to protect the environment and the health of our people, particularly women, who are most affected by harmful cooking fuels. The use of firewood and charcoal causes deforestation and respiratory diseases. This is why we are advocating for the widespread adoption of clean energy sources,” she emphasised.

Deputy Minister for Energy, Ms Judith Kapinga, provided further details on the government’s subsidy initiative, revealing that 452,445 subsidised gas cylinders, worth around Sh8.64 billion, would be distributed nationwide.

“Tanga Region alone will receive 26,400 cylinders, with Muheza District allocated 3,255 cylinders. The total value of cylinders distributed in Tanga stands at Sh455.7 million,” she said.

Collaboration with private sector companies has also contributed significantly to the initiative, resulting in rapid growth in the clean energy sector.

“Previously, gas companies saw annual revenue growth of 10 to 11 percent. However, in the past two years, this growth has surged to between 50 and 60 percent, reflecting a growing demand for clean cooking solutions,” Ms Kapinga noted.