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In Tanzania, a new champion is emerging in the fight for cleaner kitchens and a healthier environment. It is not solar panels or wind turbines, but a small, mighty innovation called Rafiki Briquettes. These briquettes are made from coal waste but refined to burn cleanly, last longer, and cost less than traditional charcoal.
The product took centre stage at the recent Nane Nane Agricultural Exhibition in Dodoma, Tanzania’s biggest agricultural and technology fair. The State Mining Corporation (STAMICO) used the event to show how clean energy can be affordable and practical for ordinary households. Instead of pickaxes and heavy mining gear, the corporation displayed neat stacks of eco-friendly briquettes, drawing crowds with their promise of smoke-free cooking.
Deus Alex, STAMICO’s Marketing and Public Relations Manager, explained that the aim is simple: reduce the use of firewood and charcoal, save trees, and protect people’s health. “Our goal is to make this energy available to as many people as possible,” he said while pointing to the neatly packed briquettes. Each block burns for up to three hours, producing less smoke and more heat efficiency.
These briquettes come from leftover coal at STAMICO’s Kabulo-Kiwira coal mine in Songwe Region. However, before they reach homes, the coal is treated to remove harmful gases, making it safe for cooking. This method reduces waste, saves forests, and supports Tanzania’s clean energy goals.
At the event, STAMICO also displayed construction stones from Chigongwe and showcased mining machines meant to help small-scale miners. The corporation has been working with women, youth, and people with disabilities, creating business opportunities across regions like Dodoma, Geita, Njombe, Mbeya, Shinyanga, and even Zanzibar.
Fatuma Madidi, leader of the Women and Samia Group in Dodoma, urged residents to buy briquettes quickly, saying demand is growing fast. “Women are now beneficiaries of mineral resources through Rafiki Briquettes,” she said, noting how it is opening doors for female entrepreneurs.
Government officials are also giving full support. Dr Suleiman Serera, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Industry and Trade, said involving women and youth proves that mineral wealth is for everyone, not just big investors. He called for high quality and fair pricing so that clean energy remains affordable.
Dodoma’s Regional Commissioner, Hon Rosemary Senyamule, invited more investors, saying the region is rich in minerals like gypsum, limestone, manganese, and copper. She sees a future where Dodoma could become a major construction hub while promoting clean energy.
Support for the project extends to the highest levels. Vice-President Dr Philip Mpango praised Rafiki Briquettes earlier this year, noting that the government plans to have 80 per cent of Tanzanians using clean cooking energy—whether natural gas, solar, or briquettes—by 2034. Over 8.6 billion Tanzanian shillings have been set aside as subsidies to make this possible.
STAMICO has expanded production to four big machines in Dodoma and Tabora, each capable of producing up to 20 tonnes daily. More than 20 Women and Samia groups are now licensed distributors nationwide.
The benefits go beyond cleaner kitchens. Using briquettes reduces indoor air pollution, which helps prevent respiratory problems, especially among women and children. It also reduces pressure on forests, helping Tanzania meet environmental sustainability goals.
From household stoves in rural villages to large events like the International Women’s Day celebration in Arusha—where meat was roasted without smoke—Rafiki Briquettes are proving that clean cooking can be practical, profitable, and popular.
With the right support, this innovation could soon be part of everyday life across Tanzania and beyond, bringing healthier homes, greener communities, and stronger local economies.
