DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA’S drive to expand clean cooking technologies and sustainable energy has received a major boost after the Royal Norwegian Embassy and the Tanzania Traditional Energy Development Organisation–Sustainable Energy Services Organisation (TaTEDO-SESO) signed a NOK 30 million (about 8bn/-) grant agreement to accelerate the country’s green energy transition.
The three-year programme, which will run from August 2026 to July 2029, supports the implementation of Tanzania’s National Clean Cooking Strategy (2024–2034) and the Mission 300 Energy Compact. The initiative aims to expand access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy while reducing reliance on traditional biomass fuels.
The project was selected through a competitive Call for Proposals launched by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in June this year. It seeks to expand access to green energy technologies, strengthen private sector participation, improve the policy environment and establish systems to monitor greenhouse gas emission reductions and other development impacts.
Speaking during the signing ceremony on Thursday, Norway’s Ambassador to Tanzania, Ms Tone Tinnes, said the partnership demonstrates the two countries’ shared commitment to sustainable development, climate action and inclusive economic growth.
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“Norway is proud to support Tanzania’s efforts to expand access to sustainable energy and clean cooking. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to climate action, inclusive economic development and stronger private sector participation in the energy sector. We look forward to working closely with TaTEDO-SESO to deliver lasting benefits to Tanzanian communities,” she said.
Ms Tinnes said the programme will be implemented in five regions and is expected to benefit about 30,000 households, 250 institutions and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It is also projected to create about 2,500 jobs, at least 40 per cent of which will go to women.
She added that the initiative will strengthen public-private dialogue, attract greater investment in the energy sector and reduce between 60,000 and 90,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions through wider adoption of clean energy technologies.
Receiving the grant, TaTEDO-SESO Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Estomih Sawe, described the agreement as a major milestone in expanding access to clean cooking and renewable energy solutions.
“With Norway’s support, we will strengthen local capacity, work closely with communities and the private sector, and accelerate Tanzania’s transition to sustainable energy while improving livelihoods and protecting the environment,” he said.
Eng Sawe noted that the programme comes at a critical time as Tanzania steps up implementation of the National Clean Cooking Strategy and Mission 300.
He said the grant will strengthen clean cooking markets, promote renewable energy innovation, encourage private sector investment and expand access to affordable modern energy services.