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Charcoal remains one of the primary cooking energy sources for many Tanzanians, whereby over 90% of Tanzania’s energy needs are met through the use of fuel wood (URT, 2017). It is also important to note that despite the high rate of economic growth and electrification in the last two decades in Tanzania, still only 6.9 % of the nation’s households have access to clean cooking fuel technology which is concentrated among the rich urban households (Ntegwa, M. J & Olan’g, S. L, 2023), whereby 63.5% of the households in Tanzania Mainland use firewood, charcoal (26.2%), LPG (5.1%) and electricity (3%), while other sources contribute to 2.2%. The share of the population with access to clean fuels for cooking is 4.5%. This high demand drives the over-harvesting of natural forests, complicating efforts to curb illegal charcoal production. Charcoal is the single largest source of household energy in urban areas, as it is considered cheap and easy to transport, distribute, and store. The reliance on charcoal is deeply ingrained in the socio-economic fabric of many communities, creating a complex challenge for sustainable forest management.
For many rural communities in Tanzania, charcoal production is not just a means of cooking fuel, it is a critical source of income. This economic dependency makes it challenging to enforce bans or restrictions on charcoal production without providing viable alternative livelihoods. Efforts to transition these communities to sustainable energy sources must consider the economic implications and provide sufficient support and training to ensure a smooth transition.
Clean energy cooking solutions are considered the most efficient alternative to charcoal and fuelwood. These solutions reduce CO2 emissions, help preserve the environment, and contribute to healthier communities. However, adoption remains slow due to several barriers, including limited awareness, limited access to clean energy technologies, and the initial cost of transitioning. "I believe clean energy solutions are our strongest allies in reducing emissions, preserving our forests, and fostering healthier communities. By championing awareness, access, and affordability, we can empower communities to embrace these sustainable alternatives. We must work together as a collective effort to overcome the barriers that hinder the adoption of these technologies, ensuring that every household can benefit from clean, efficient energy sources." commended Mr. Bakari Mohamed-Tanzania Forest Services Agency, Lake Zonal Manager
The Lake Zone is the biggest consumer of woodfuel, with a significant portion of its charcoal supply coming from the Western Zone, particularly Tabora region. This inter-regional supply chain underscores the complexity of the issue, as efforts to curb charcoal production in one region must consider the demand in another.
One of the critical issues raised in the TFWVC baseline study was the lack of forest extension services. Despite TFS’s efforts to educate communities through radio programs and community awareness campaigns about sustainable charcoal production, several challenges persist. Native communities often encroach on TFS-demarcated forests for grazing, agriculture, construction, and other activities that disrupt forest ecosystems. Increasing population pressure further exacerbates the problem, as expanding human activities reduce forest cover.
Charcoal and timber sales constitute significant revenue streams for Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS), with charcoal accounting for a substantial percentage. Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) regulates the charcoal business by ensuring operators comply with forest laws, including registration, transit permits, and inspection at checkpoints. However, the challenge lies in the illicit trade conducted by small-scale operators who use motorbikes and bicycles to transport charcoal sacks through informal routes, evading official checkpoints.
‘‘I recognize that while charcoal and timber sales are vital revenue streams, the illicit trade bypassing our regulations poses a significant challenge. We must strengthen our enforcement to ensure sustainable practices and protect our forests." Said Mr. Ebrantino Mgiye-Tanzania Forest Services Agency, Western Zone Manager
To combat illegal charcoal production, Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) has established a forest surveillance unit that operates covertly, gathering intelligence from local communities to intercept illegal activities. This unit works closely with village forest committees to enhance enforcement and protect forest resources. However, the scale of the problem requires more comprehensive and collaborative efforts to be truly effective.
How the EU funded Project is Revolutionizing Forestry Oversight Throughout Tanzania
This three years’ project is making significant strides in tackling the myriad challenges faced in Tanzania's forestry sector. By focusing on forest extension services, regulatory improvements, and the creation of comprehensive training manuals for Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) staff, the project addresses critical gaps in capacity building and operational efficiency. Key initiatives include strengthening the Forest Surveillance Unit and enhancing patrol systems through the provision of essential resources such as patrol vehicles, radio communication systems, motorbikes, and fiber boats. These advancements are designed to bolster the effectiveness of forest monitoring and enforcement in Dar es Salaam, Pwani, Mwanza, Morogoro, Tanga, and Tabora regions, thereby advancing sustainable forest management and conservation efforts across the country.
‘‘It goes beyond merely addressing the immediate challenges facing Tanzania's forestry sector; it represents a forward-thinking and strategic investment in the long-term health and sustainability of the country's forest ecosystems. By providing critical resources, developing robust training programs, and enhancing regulatory frameworks, the project aims to create a lasting impact that supports not only the preservation and restoration of forests but also the well-being of the communities that depend on these natural resources. This initiative embodies a commitment to building a resilient and adaptive forestry management system that will safeguard Tanzania's environmental and socio-economic future for generations to come." Mr. Savinus Kessy – Energy and Cimate Change Programme Coordinator WWF Tanzania
Addressing the challenges of charcoal production and forest conservation in Tanzania requires a multi-faceted approach. It involves strengthening governance and enforcement, providing economic alternatives to charcoal production, and promoting sustainable energy solutions. Collaborative efforts between organizations like WWF, Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS), and local communities are crucial to achieving sustainable forest management and ensuring a healthier environment for future generations. The transition to clean energy cooking solutions is a vital step in this journey, offering a path to reduced emissions, preserved forests, and improved community health.
WWF Tanzania, through the EU-funded Integrated Approach for Tanzania Fuel Wood Value Chain Project, has been actively engaging with local stakeholders to address these challenges. Recently, WWF paid a courtesy call to the Tanzania Forest Service (TFS) Zonal Offices in Tabora and Mwanza to discuss the cross-cutting issues that hinder sustainable forest management. These discussions highlighted the factors preventing native societies from migrating from using charcoal and fuelwood to sustainable clean energy cooking solutions.