Africa urged to support clean cooking energy

ANTANANARIVO- MADAGASCAR: Tanzania’s Finance Minister, Dr Mwigulu Nchemba, has urged African countries to prioritize clean cooking energy as a strategy to boost economic growth, improve citizens’ livelihoods, and address the challenges of climate change.

Representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting of Africa50 and the Infra for Africa Forum, held in Antananarivo, Madagascar, on Thursday, Dr Nchemba emphasized the urgent need for African nations to transition to sustainable energy sources.

The well-attended event was officially opened by Madagascar’s President, Andry Rajoelina.

In his keynote speech, Dr. Nchemba highlighted the critical role that public education on clean energy can play in driving both economic and environmental benefits.

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He further called on financial institutions and private sector stakeholders to support clean energy initiatives by providing funding and producing affordable clean cooking equipment, such as stoves powered by liquefied gas, solar, geothermal, and biogas.

The minister also participated in a discussion on the importance of clean cooking energy as one of the featured speakers.

The Africa50 Shareholders’ Meeting brought together key stakeholders from around the world, including public and private sector investors, lenders, and infrastructure experts.

Discussions focused on addressing Africa’s infrastructure challenges, mitigating the effects of climate change, and promoting clean cooking energy as a key driver of economic development.