(Dar es Salaam) – TotalEnergies is making strides to meet the growing demand for clean energy in Tanzania, particularly for cooking, through innovation and strategic investment.
TotalEnergies has set its sights on driving the transition to clean energy in Tanzania. Leveraging its expertise, market leadership, and high-quality energy solutions, the company has launched new initiatives to provide safe and efficient alternatives for traditional cooking methods.
According to Getrude Mpangile, the Director of Legal and Corporate Affairs for TotalEnergies Marketing Tanzania Limited, the company’s rebranding in 2021 from “Total” to “TotalEnergies” marked a shift in focus. This change aimed to broaden their approach beyond traditional fuel-based energy to include cleaner, safer options.
Mpangile explained, “The decision to rename the company was not just about branding but about aligning with a global mission to embrace clean and safe energy solutions.”
As part of this mission, the company introduced TotalEnergies Gas, a range of cooking gas cylinders designed to make clean cooking accessible to Tanzanians. These cylinders are tailored to provide safety, affordability, and a modern design. Mpangile noted the launch aligns with global and national trends toward clean energy adoption, including the Tanzanian government’s National Strategy for Clean Cooking.
She added, “We saw a growing demand for clean energy and decided this was the right time to launch. The government’s strategy for clean cooking perfectly complements our vision.”
The newly designed cylinders are aesthetically appealing and equipped with enhanced safety features. Currently available in Dar es Salaam and Pwani regions, the company aims to expand their availability nationwide.
TotalEnergies is investing approximately TZS 16 billion ($7 million) annually in clean cooking initiatives. This funding supports research, education, and infrastructure development to promote clean energy use across the country. Mpangile is optimistic that these efforts will encourage more Tanzanians to transition from traditional cooking fuels, which have significant health and environmental drawbacks.
“Clean energy benefits are far-reaching,” she stated. “It protects the environment, improves efficiency, and saves time. Time spent collecting firewood can now be redirected to income-generating activities. Additionally, these solutions enhance public health, particularly for women, by reducing respiratory and eye problems caused by smoke from traditional cooking methods.”
However, Mpangile acknowledged that achieving widespread adoption remains a challenge. A significant number of Tanzanians still rely on traditional energy sources despite the government’s and private sector’s efforts. She remains confident that, with time and continued investment, the country will achieve its clean energy goals.
Mpangile also called on Tanzanians to embrace clean cooking solutions, including TotalEnergies Gas, emphasizing their safety, efficiency, and affordability. She encouraged local entrepreneurs to seize the opportunity to distribute the cylinders, noting that the company provides training to ensure professional handling and customer service.
In addition to promoting clean energy, TotalEnergies continues to offer comprehensive services at its fuel stations. These include vehicle maintenance, oil changes, car washes, financial transaction services, and convenience shopping at its Bonjour outlets.
Mpangile concluded with a message for vehicle owners to utilize the inclusive services at TotalEnergies stations, emphasizing the company’s commitment to delivering diverse, quality services under one roof.
TotalEnergies Powers Tanzania’s Clean Cooking Revolution
| Investment Details | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual Clean Energy Budget | TZS 16 billion ($7M) |
| Targeted Areas | Research, Education, Infrastructure |