THE Rural Energy Agency (REA) has launched a new initiative to distribute 19,530 gas cylinders in six districts of Dodoma Region at a price subsidised by 50 percent.

The initiative is part of the government’s efforts to improve access to clean cooking energy in rural and peri-urban areas meant to reduce reliance on traditional fuels such as firewood and charcoal.

The project is implemented after an agreement with local energy firm at a cost of 406.7m/- which will see the distribution of 6-kilogramme  gas cylinders along with the necessary tools at a reduced price of 20,825/-, down from the previous price of  41,650/-.

The initiative was officially launched by Dodoma Regional Commissioner, Rosemary Senyamule, during a ceremony in Chamwino District on Tuesday.

Senyamule emphasised that the project forms part of the government’s broader commitment to providing affordable and sustainable energy solutions to promote both public health and environmental protection.

“The initiative will also include training for local residents on how to use   clean energy safely. The aim is to improve health outcomes, protect the environment, and provide affordable energy alternatives for cooking,” Senyamule said.

She further encouraged residents across Chamwino and other districts to take advantage of the opportunity to improve their economic status while also safeguarding the environment.

“We urge everyone to embrace clean energy alternatives to reduce pollution and enhance their livelihoods,” she said.

REA Acting Director General, Emmanuel Yesaya, explained that each of the six districts will receive 3,255 gas cylinders.

The distribution is part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to improve access to clean cooking energy, which is expected to drive both economic and social development.

He said the project will contribute to mitigating climate change, safeguarding the environment, and promoting a healthier, more sustainable future for communities across the region.

Janeth Mayanja, Chamwino District Commissioner, highlighted several additional benefits of the project, noting that it would help reduce the pressure on local forests, which are often depleted for firewood and charcoal, contributing to deforestation and reduction of climate change impact.

She said the initiative will also address public health issues related to smoke from burning traditional fuels, which is a leading cause of respiratory illnesses.

“Moreover, this project will help reduce gender-based violence, which is common in rural areas where women and children are often tasked with collecting firewood. By switching to gas, women will have more time to engage in productive economic activities, hence contributing to combat poverty,” Mayanja said.