In brief
As Tanzania aims for widespread CNG use, current fueling challenges could stall the momentum generated by early adopters amidst a burgeoning interest in cleaner energy alternatives.
The revolution in cleaner vehicle fuels is underway in Tanzania, echoing trends seen in various African nations, yet it finds itself facing significant obstacles due to the lack of filling stations. Compressed natural gas (CNG) is emerging as a favored alternative to traditional petrol and diesel, not just for its environmental benefits but also for its affordability. While about 5,000 motorists have made the switch, including many commercial drivers, this number remains a small percentage of Tanzania's vehicle population. Nonetheless, their initiatives are setting the foundation for broader CNG acceptance, with government aspirations for widespread adoption by mid-century.Tanzania boasts substantial natural gas reserves off its coast, making CNG an economical option—often costing less than half of petrol. For instance, Samuel Amos Irube, who owns a three-wheeled vehicle known as a bajaji, invested around 1.5 million Tanzanian shillings (approximately $620) to convert his vehicle to CNG. Yet, the lack of available filling stations forces him to queue for hours to refuel in the bustling capital of Dar es Salaam. Currently, there are only four filling stations in the area, leading to prolonged waits that sometimes take three hours or longer, ultimately consuming valuable time that could be spent earning an income.As frustration builds among drivers lining up, the lament over insufficient gas stations is common. Medadi Kichungo Ngoma, one of the early advocates for CNG usage, reflects on times when refueling was straightforward, unlike today where attendees can barely manage the soaring demand. Similarly, Sadiki Christian Mkumbuka operates a bajaji and echoes the call for more filling stations, especially as the environmental benefits and cost savings continue to attract new users. Despite these current challenges, there is optimism about CNG's future in Tanzania. The country’s gas project, which began earnest efforts in 2018, has seen unforeseen increases in usage, prompting local authorities to enhance infrastructure to meet the demand. Aristides Kato, responsible for overseeing the CNG initiative at the Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation (TPDC), acknowledged the pressing need for expanded facilities. Recognized for its cleaner emissions, CNG offers environmental improvements over conventional fossil fuels, and Tanzanian officials are eager to promote its use while keeping costs lower. However, the upfront conversion expense and lesser mileage than petrol may deter some potential adopters. Meanwhile, companies like Taqa Arabia, which manage an airport CNG station, view the increasing demand favorably and plan to establish additional filling stations to ease current burdens.The TPDC is also spearheading efforts to create a central "mother station" in Dar es Salaam to distribute gas to smaller facilities nationwide, alongside the deployment of mobile units to various cities. Such projects are expected to alleviate the long wait times for CNG refueling, although frustrations remain for early converts paving the way in Tanzania's transition to cleaner energy.
