STAMICO launches 3.7bn/- clean energy factory in Dodoma

The government of Tanzania has intensified efforts to promote clean cooking energy through increased investment in alternative fuel sources. The State Mining Corporation (STAMICO) has launched a 3.7bn/- Rafiki Briquettes factory in Dodoma, located in Chigongwe Ward. The modern plant was officially launched by the Minister of Minerals, Anthony Mavunde. This move is part of the government's efforts to reduce reliance on firewood and charcoal.

The Rafiki Briquettes factory is the fourth established by STAMICO in the country. According to STAMICO Director General, Dr Venance Mwasse, the plant has cost 3.7bn/-, while the total investment in infrastructure and equipment launched during the event amounted to 6.09bn/-. Dr Mwasse stated that the investment reflects STAMICO's commitment to adding value to mineral resources, strengthening local industries, and producing goods that contribute to national development.

The corporation is implementing reforms under its MASTASHA strategy (Make STAMICO Shine Again), aimed at making it more efficient and competitive in the mining sector. Rafiki Briquettes production supports government efforts to expand access to clean cooking energy while creating employment and business opportunities, particularly for women and young people. This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the environment and the local economy.

STAMICO also unveiled distribution equipment, including 30 three-wheeled motorcycles, 20 storage and distribution containers, a timber processing rig, and two transport trucks. The equipment will enable agents and entrepreneurs to participate in the distribution business and generate income. The motorcycles will be distributed across different regions, while the containers will serve Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar to improve access to clean cooking energy.

STAMICO Board Chairman, Ambassador Simon Sirro, said the factory's launch demonstrated cooperation between the board and management in implementing strategies to improve the corporation's performance. He urged Dodoma residents and Tanzanians generally to embrace Rafiki Briquettes, saying public participation was essential to reducing dependence on polluting cooking fuels.

Ambassador Sirro also called on STAMICO to strengthen marketing and expand distribution, urging public institutions, particularly schools and prisons, to adopt the product. He further emphasized the importance of environmental conservation through tree planting and the adoption of technologies that minimize environmental damage. This initiative is part of STAMICO's broader efforts to strengthen domestic production and support the national clean cooking energy agenda.

The launch of the Rafiki Briquettes factory is a significant step towards promoting clean cooking energy in Tanzania. The factory is expected to create employment opportunities and contribute to the country's economic growth. The government's efforts to promote clean cooking energy are crucial in reducing the country's reliance on firewood and charcoal, which have negative environmental impacts.

Key points

• The factory's launch demonstrates cooperation between the board and management in implementing strategies to improve STAMICO's performance.
• Rafiki Briquettes production supports government efforts to expand access to clean cooking energy while creating employment and business opportunities.
• The investment in the factory reflects STAMICO's commitment to adding value to mineral resources, strengthening local industries, and producing goods that contribute to national development.