Why East Africa Needs to Embrace Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Right Now
Energy fuels our world, driving economies and improving lives. Yet, when it comes to cooking energy—a basic human need—many East African countries are still heavily reliant on traditional sources like fuelwood, charcoal, and kerosene. These methods are not just outdated but harmful, contributing to deforestation, respiratory diseases, and climate change.
The Case for LPG
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is the clean, efficient alternative that East Africa desperately needs. According to Eng. Amos Jackson Mwansumbule, Executive Director of Tanzania LPG Association, LPG stands out for its lower pollutant emissions and higher energy content compared to biomass. It also offers convenience: no more soot, quicker cooking times, and portable cylinders that reach even the most remote areas.
The Current State.
Despite these benefits, LPG adoption in rural East Africa is lagging. Research from the African Insight Advisor Organization (AIAO) in 2022 reveals that only 1% of rural households use LPG, compared to 54% in urban areas. Why the disparity? Limited accessibility, low awareness, and affordability issues are major barriers.
A Growing Trend.
LPG consumption is on the rise in East Africa, especially in Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda, with annual growth rates around 15%. However, the per capita consumption in the region still pales compared to North Africa, where it’s over 20 kg per person annually. Kenya leads with about 6 kg per person, while Tanzania and Rwanda hover around 2.5 kg, and Uganda and Burundi are below 2 kg.
Overcoming the Challenges.
The roadblocks to higher LPG usage include inadequate infrastructure, low consumer awareness, and high import costs. Governments, private sectors, and stakeholders must unite to overcome these hurdles. Eng. Mwansumbule emphasizes that governments need to implement effective policies, remove taxes, and invest in infrastructure to boost LPG adoption.
A Call to Action.
Governments should also consider the long-term cost benefits of subsidizing LPG prices versus the expense of treating air pollution-related illnesses and managing environmental damage caused by biomass. If it costs less to subsidize LPG than to address the fallout from dirty fuels, then the choice is clear.
The Bottom Line.
For East Africa, the time to embrace LPG is now. With the right policies and investments, LPG can replace harmful biomass sources, improving health, protecting the environment, and making cooking safer and more convenient for millions.
