Arusha Technical College (ATC) in Tanzania is set to start using biogas as an alternative source clean energy for cooking, following the construction of a biogas plant at Kikuletwa campus. The plant, which will utilise the college’s organic waste, was constructed by college trainers and students, as a result of the industry partnership between ATC and CAMARTEC, a government agency responsible for turning policies on agricultural technology into programs to boost farm productivity and improve rural livelihoods

Trainers at Arusha Technical College in early stages of constructing a biogas plant.

Construction of the test unit chamber

The East Africa Skills for Transformation and Regional Integration Project (EASTRIP) supports TVET institutes to establish strong collaboration with industry. The college involved trainers and students in the construction process of the biogas plant to give them hands on experience and transform their knowledge to practice.

In Tanzania, 80% of the population has limited access to grid power and depends on biomass fuel for cooking and lighting. Approximately 90% of energy consumption comes from firewood, which is essential for individual livelihoods. However, the use of firewood contributes to air pollution, deforestation, and negative socio-economic impacts. Therefore, the construction of Biogas plant at Kikuletwa is a significant step in developing alternative, environmentally friendly energy sources that reduce the country’s dependence on fossil fuels.

By Makundi Senzota, Public Relations Officer at Arusha Technical College