The Tanzanian government has been asked to put on hold biofuels projects by Professor Raphael Mwalyosi, a Ludewa MP in the country. Also an environmental expert, Mwalyosi warned the Tanzanian government against moving forward with biofuels before it sets regulations for the industry.
The professor told parliament that allowing investors to venture into biofuels projects without proper guidelines and policies could have a negative impact on the land. Alternative fuel projects have faced opposition from more than one NGO. Some NGO’s believe that crops used for biofuels production will negatively affect the soil, while others insist that farmers need to concentrate on food crops to avoid food shortages.
Mwalyosi warned against the projects since most biofuel crops – such as jatropha – are hazardous to the soil (though many would debate the jatropha claim). Mwalyosi also claims there are reports of biofuels crops being grown on land suitable for food crops.
"We are informed the guidelines and policies to govern the biofuel sector are yet to be finalized. Why then can’t we wait until the documents are there before allowing people to engage in this industry? Why are we rushing?" Mwalyosi said.
The government is currently putting together framework to protect national interests. During a budget speech, the Ministry of Energy and Minerals Minister William Ngeleja said that the government was currently negotiating with Sweden to finance the preparation of a framework that will govern the biofuels industry in Tanzania.
While plans are being made, Ngeleja said that the government was preparing some guidelines to be used by "stakeholders in the industry." The draft guidelines are expected to be completed by year end.
In addition, the Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC) has issued eight certificates to companies to invest in the industry while interest continues to grow.