by James L.Laizer
Africa’s Energy Future: Tanzania Calls for Bold Action at COP30
At COP30 in Belém, Brazil, Tanzania chaired the African Group and urged African nations to adopt a cautious approach to phasing out fossil fuels, emphasising the need to balance climate action with economic and social development priorities.
As a significant gas-producing country, Tanzania played a leading role in advising African ministers on fossil fuel policy. A document obtained by Climate Home News recommended that African countries resist a rapid fossil fuel phase-out while prioritising universal energy access in the summit’s final agreements.
Tanzania depends on fossil gas for a substantial portion of its electricity and has further reserves set for auction. The country also plays a key role in the 1,443 kilometre East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), linking Ugandan oil fields to the port of Tanga for export. These resources are critical for industrial growth, affordable electricity, and economic stability, particularly as Tanzania works to expand access to power for millions of households.
The Tanzanian delegation highlighted the importance of transitioning away from traditional biomass, such as wood and charcoal, while strategically utilising gas and other fossil fuels. This approach reflects a broader concern across Africa: energy transitions must not undermine electrification, industrial growth, or economic development.
Tanzania’s stance also underscored divisions within the African bloc. Countries like Kenya and Sierra Leone supported a fossil fuel transition roadmap, while Nigeria and Ghana stressed the importance of maintaining energy access to safeguard economic and social stability. With over 600 million people still lacking electricity and many economies dependent on oil and gas revenues, Africa’s approach reflects its unique development context.
Although explicit references to phasing out fossil fuels were removed from the final “Global Mutirão” political package, questions remain about the continent’s collective position. Observers suggest the cautious approach is aimed at maintaining flexibility, protecting economic interests, and ensuring equitable energy access.
Experts note that Africa could have leveraged COP30 to advocate for a “just, equitable, and inclusive” transition pathway, but internal divergence limited influence. There is a clear need for predictable financing, technological support, and national ownership to make transitions feasible and sustainable. Without these resources, ambitious climate targets risk remaining unattainable.
Looking ahead, Tanzania and other African negotiators are emphasising strategies that integrate climate action with development objectives, prioritise secure financing, and allow countries to control their energy transition pathways. COP30 highlighted the tension between global climate ambitions and Africa’s development realities, reinforcing the need to place energy access, economic growth, and equitable support at the centre of any transition strategy.
From Turmoil to Recovery: How Tourism Operators Are Reviving the Industry
Tourism operators across Tanzania are working to revive the sector after election-related unrest disrupted travel during the festive season. December, usually a period of high demand from Zanzibar’s beaches to the northern safari circuit saw widespread cancellations, compounded by foreign travel advisories.
Operators have launched concerted efforts to restore confidence and reaffirm Tanzania’s reputation as a safe, world-class destination. Initiatives include marketing campaigns, flexible booking options, and enhanced engagement with domestic, regional, and international travellers. Safari lodges, beach resorts, and travel agencies are offering special packages, while coordinating closely with local authorities to ensure safety and smooth logistics.
The unrest highlighted tourism’s economic and social importance. The sector supports thousands of jobs and sustains communities that depend on visitor spending. Zanzibar and northern safari circuits are now witnessing a gradual return of travellers, reflecting the industry’s resilience.
Looking ahead, stakeholders advocate for long-term strategies combining risk management, crisis communication, and sustainable tourism promotion. Strengthening infrastructure and contingency planning will help Tanzania maintain resilience against future disruptions. With operators leading recovery efforts, the country is reaffirming its position as one of Africa’s premier travel destinations, showcasing its natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage.
TSh 1bn Equipment Sparks Forest Conservation Drive
In a major boost for sustainable forestry, Tanzania’s Ministry of Tourism and Natural Resources received equipment worth over TSh 1 billion, aimed at strengthening forest conservation and curbing unregulated trade in forest products.
The equipment, including vehicles, motorcycles, drones, surveillance boats, and radio communication systems, will enhance monitoring, enforcement, and management across the country. The Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) will also deploy new point-of-sale systems to improve revenue collection.
This initiative forms part of the three-year Transformation of the Tanzania Fuel Wood Value Chain Project (2023–2026), funded by the European Union. The project seeks to shift Tanzania’s dependence on fuelwood toward cleaner energy solutions, addressing climate change while protecting forest resources. Training programs will equip district and village officials with skills in procurement, data collection, and permit management.
The initiative targets high fuelwood-producing regions, including Dar es Salaam, Morogoro, Tanga, Pwani, Mwanza, and Tabora. Collaboration between the government, WWF Tanzania, the Mpingo Conservation and Development Initiative, and the Lawyers’ Environmental Action Team (LEAT) highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in promoting sustainable energy and forest governance.
With these resources, Tanzania is poised to strengthen leadership in sustainable forest management, enhance compliance with conservation laws, and transform the wood value chain to benefit both the environment and local communities. The TSh 1 billion equipment injection represents a decisive step toward preserving forests for current and future generations.