Oryx Gas takes clean cooking energy competition to Mbeya in environmental conservation drive

Mbeya. A vibrant cooking competition featuring 1,000 participants from Mbeya is underway, sponsored by Oryx Gas.

The event is part of a broader initiative by Oryx Gas to promote clean energy use.

The company underscores that these efforts align with President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan’s goal for 80 percent of Tanzanians to use clean energy by 2034.

The marketing manager for Oryx Gas Tanzania, Mr Peter Ndomba, said on Tuesday that the competition particularly targets male and female food vendors who are particularly vulnerable to health hazards associated with the extensive use of firewood and charcoal.

“These people spend many hours cooking with charcoal, contributing to serious health issues such as respiratory problems. Our initiative aims to encourage these cooks to switch from firewood and charcoal to cleaner energy sources,” Ndomba said.

Ndomba emphasized that transitioning to clean energy could help address health challenges and save lives. The competition is designed to demonstrate the benefits of using gas for cooking, which Oryx Gas believes is a solution to numerous health, environmental, and economic issues.

“We want to send a clear message that clean cooking energy is essential. We believe it offers solutions to various challenges,” he added.

The competition is also a public demonstration of Oryx Gas's commitment to clean energy, providing a visible platform for community engagement.

Participants, including woman food vendor, Ms Yusra Ismail, who works in the Sabasaba area of Mbeya, expressed their appreciation for the event.

“The competition has been incredibly beneficial, offering us education on the importance of clean energy and safe practices,” Ismail said.

She noted that gas energy helps them work more efficiently and reduces health risks associated with traditional cooking methods.

Sabrina Anold from Ilomba Ward also praised the program, stating that the shift to clean cooking energy has been transformative.

“Previously, we used firewood and charcoal, which were time-consuming and harmful. With clean energy, we can manage our time better and avoid health problems related to smoke,” Anold explained.

Mr Yusuph Maumba, another competition participant, highlighted the environmental benefits of switching to gas.

“This competition encourages the use of clean energy and helps protect the environment from the damage caused by firewood and charcoal,” he said.

Maumba expressed strong support for President Hassan’s environmental goals and praised the quality of food cooked with gas.

Mr Zakaria Msigwa also voiced support for the clean energy initiative, urging others to abandon firewood and charcoal in favor of gas.

He encouraged Oryx Gas to continue its educational efforts and distribution of gas cylinders and stoves.

The competition not only showcases culinary skills but also serves as a catalyst for widespread adoption of clean energy in cooking, reflecting a commitment to both health and environmental sustainability.