The Impact and Effectiveness of Mama Samia's Stoves Initiative in Tanzania Communities
Keywords:
Mama Samia's Stove, Deforestation and charcoal, Carbon Emissions, Tanzania CommunitiesAbstract
This study examines the impact and effectiveness of Mama Samia’s Stoves Initiative on energy efficiency, health, and environmental sustainability in Tanzanian communities. Employing a convergent parallel mixed-methods approach, data were collected between June and September 2024 in Kiwangwa and Dunda Wards, Bagamoyo District Council. The study involved household surveys, air quality measurements, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and case study analyses of urban and rural settings.
Quantitative analysis, though limited to a small purposive sample of 12 households for air quality assessments due to logistical constraints, applied independent t-tests to compare air quality (PM2.5 levels), health outcomes, and stove adoption rates between users of Mama Samia’s stoves and traditional stoves. Chi-square tests were used to compare Mama Samia stove usage between urban and rural areas. A preliminary Chi-square test for association (though limited due to the small sample) indicates that adoption rates were higher in urban households than in rural ones, supporting the qualitative findings regarding disparities driven by income, accessibility, and information exposure. Qualitative data were thematically analysed to provide insights into perceived benefits, adoption barriers, and cultural influences.
Results showed significant reductions in biomass fuel use, leading to improved indoor air quality (p = 0.03) and decreased respiratory complaints (p = 0.01). Qualitative findings indicated increased awareness of environmental and health benefits, though cultural resistance to abandoning traditional cooking methods persisted, especially for specific meals and occasions. The study highlights the potential of the initiative to advance health outcomes, reduce environmental degradation, and deliver economic benefits. However, it also highlights the need to address cultural preferences, affordability challenges, and disparities in access, particularly between urban and rural households, to enhance adoption and ensure long-term sustainability.
These findings align with Sustainable Development Theory and contribute to the growing body of evidence on clean energy transitions in East Africa. The initiative demonstrates the potential to improve health, reduce environmental degradation, and provide economic benefits. However, the study highlights the importance of addressing cultural preferences and practical barriers to enhance acceptance and ensure sustainability. The study recommends inclusive, culturally informed, and adaptable implementation strategies for greater impact.
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