Jafo calls for technology use to boost EAC economy
The Minister for Industry and Trade, Dr Selemani Jafo, addresses participants in Arusha on Friday, December 6, 2024, during the closing session of the Regional Energy Efficiency Conference (REEC) 2024. The conference, which brought together delegates from EAC and SADC member states, highlighted the importance of increasing technology adoption to strengthen the economies of both regions. PHOTO: BERTHA ISMAIL
What you need to know:
- Mr Jafo made the statement in Arusha on Friday, December 6, when closing the Regional Energy Efficiency Conference (REEC) 2024, which brought together participants from EAC and SADC member states.
Arusha. The Minister for Industry and Trade, Dr Selemani Jafo, has called on the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states to prioritise technological development to improve energy efficiency.
He insisted that industrial development heavily depended on the availability of sufficient and efficient energy, a crucial factor in stimulating economic growth both within the region and across Africa.
Mr Jafo made the statement in Arusha on Friday, December 6, when closing the Regional Energy Efficiency Conference (REEC) 2024, which brought together participants from EAC and SADC member states.
“Our countries focus on growing their economies, enhancing industrial productivity, and improving business efficiency. However, this can only be achieved under a reliable and efficient energy supply,” he said.
He noted that Tanzania had made notable progress in improving energy efficiency, highlighting that the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) was creating energy-efficient standards for locally produced and imported energy equipment to optimise electricity usage.
The Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, Dr Khatibu Kazungu reaffirmed the Tanzanian government’s commitment to implement the Energy Efficiency Strategy launched on December 4, 2024.
He emphasised that adequate budget allocations would ensure the country has access to efficient energy technologies.
“Key REEC 2024 resolutions include the need for joint research to enhance energy efficiency and full engagement of the private sector in energy-related initiatives,” said Dr Kazungu.
The Chairperson of the Infrastructure Committee, Mr Selemani Kakoso, commended the government for successfully organising the REEC 2024 conference.
He said the event had yielded valuable outcomes, including training and knowledge-sharing opportunities to advance energy efficiency in the region.
The conference, which began on December 4, 2024, brought together policymakers, legislators, industry leaders, experts, and specialists in energy matters, all united in their goal of ensuring sustainable and efficient energy use.
Among the issues agreed in the resolution include increasing collaborative efforts to develop energy-efficient technologies that will help optimise energy usage across the region.
