Dirty cooking fuels kill 32,000 people annually in Tanzania

Iringa. Shocking statistics have emerged, revealing that over 32,000 people succumb annually to carbon monoxide poisoning attributed to the use of non-clean energy sources.

This revelation was made by the Managing Director of Viridium Tanzania, Mr George Ferriera, during a recent visit by the Deputy Minister of State in the Vice President's Office (Union and Environment), Khamis Hamza Khamis, to an alternative energy project.

Mr Ferriera highlighted that the project, which harnesses alternative energy from elephant grass, stands as a beacon of environmental friendliness compared to traditional charcoal production.

"When utilising our charcoal, the stark difference lies in its non-toxic nature. Moreover, the cultivation of elephant grass obviates the need for continuous replanting, thus mitigating deforestation associated with conventional charcoal production," he emphasised.

Mr Ferreira elucidated that the factory currently boasts a production capacity of 5,000 tonnes of briquettes annually, with plans underway to augment this figure to 10,000 tonnes per year through the acquisition of additional machinery.

"We've provided employment to 100 permanent workers while also engaging 300 temporary workers on a daily basis, particularly women who have demonstrated keen interest. In fact, the demand for temporary positions is so high that we're compelled to extend our operations to villages beyond the vicinity of the Magubike, Kidamali, and Nyamihuu project areas," he elaborated.

He further noted, "The grasslands that now yield this valuable resource were formerly tobacco farms procured through bank auctions. Notably, elephant grass possesses the unique ability to absorb carbon monoxide from the atmosphere and sequester it in the soil, thereby enriching the land."

Highlighting the agricultural benefits, Mr Ferreira mentioned that elephant grass aids in soil conservation without necessitating the use of harmful chemicals, boasting an impressive yield of six tonnes of dry grass per acre.

In terms of market dynamics, he underscored the burgeoning clean energy sector, which has experienced an upsurge in demand following the government's directive issued on January 31, 2024, mandating institutions or companies serving more than 1000 people to adopt clean energy for cooking.

This expanding market encompasses educational institutions, government bodies, and former tobacco farmers who have transitioned from firewood to alternative energy sources, thereby contributing to forest preservation.

Ferreira added that numerous clients, particularly spice producers, have embraced alternative charcoal for ginger drying purposes.

In his remarks, Mr Khamis reiterated the government's commitment to transitioning Tanzanians from wood and charcoal reliance to sustainable energy sources as outlined in the 2020–2025 Election Manifesto.

Mr Khamis emphasised that the adoption of renewable energy forms a crucial pillar in environmental preservation and climate change mitigation efforts.

"Deforestation precipitates a myriad of adverse consequences, including drought-related illnesses and the exacerbation of global temperatures," he cautioned.

Mr Khamis urged governmental leaders to extend unwavering support to investors, particularly those spearheading initiatives geared towards environmental conservation and climate change mitigation.

He extended a warm invitation to prospective investors, asserting that Tanzania presents ample opportunities for investment, including ventures in carbon trading.