The recent call by Minister of Minerals Hon. Anthony Mavunde for coal companies to invest in domestic power generation highlights an important issue: is coal truly the future of Tanzania’s energy, or are we missing an opportunity to build a more sustainable and forward-looking energy strategy?
While coal has played a significant role in boosting Tanzania’s mining sector, generating employment, and increasing exports, the push to rely on coal for electricity generation raises important questions about sustainability. Globally, the trend is moving away from coal, with many countries adopting cleaner, renewable energy sources to meet environmental and climate goals. Tanzania, on the other hand, seems poised to double down on coal—an energy source that is not only one of the most polluting but also increasingly seen as obsolete.
Minister Mavunde’s suggestion that coal companies should consider investing in electricity generation from coal is understandable in the short-term context of increasing domestic energy demands. However, the notion of “clean energy” from coal raises significant concerns. Despite advancements in cleaner coal technologies, coal remains a high carbon emitter, contributing heavily to global warming and environmental degradation. Can coal ever truly be “clean”? Or is this a misguided attempt to fit an outdated energy source into a narrative of sustainability?
The real risk here is locking Tanzania into a coal-dependent future at a time when many other nations are investing heavily in renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower. By focusing too heavily on coal, Tanzania may find itself lagging behind in the global shift toward sustainable energy, potentially missing out on opportunities for innovation and investment in greener alternatives.
Revenue Gains Without Sustainable Impact? Tanzania’s coal sector has certainly delivered impressive revenue results, as seen with Ruvuma surpassing its collection targets by 112% in just the first two months of FY 2024/25. While these short-term gains are noteworthy, they risk obscuring the more pressing need for sustainable, long-term development. The coal sector’s financial success must translate into real, lasting improvements for the communities living near mining operations, rather than serving as a quick cash injection that does little for the environment or future generations.
The danger lies in focusing too much on immediate economic benefits while ignoring the long-term costs of environmental degradation and resource depletion. Revenues from coal exports may provide a temporary boost to Tanzania’s economy, but if those profits are not reinvested wisely—particularly in renewable energy infrastructure, education, healthcare, and sustainable development—the country could be left grappling with the aftereffects of an industry that is not built to last.
In conclusion, while coal has undeniably contributed to Tanzania’s mining success, it is time to critically assess whether this is the best path forward for the nation. Relying on coal for energy generation and short-term revenue growth may bring immediate benefits, but without a serious commitment to sustainability, the long-term impact on the environment and the economy could be costly. Tanzania has the opportunity to lead with a more forward-thinking energy strategy that embraces renewable resources and sets the foundation for future generations. Will we take it, or will we remain anchored to an energy source of the past?
