Modelling the Factors Influencing Kerosene Consumption for Lighting among Rural Households in Tanzania

This study was designed to identify the key variables influencing kerosene consumption by households in Tanzania. A total of 400 households were randomly selected from Mbeya region focusing on rural areas. Data analysis was done through the use of binary logistic regression model in assessing the effect of the independent variables on the dependent variables. It was found that majority of household in the study area used kerosene for lighting. Kerosene consumption consisted 40.2 per cent of households while 23.8 percent used torch, 23.2 per cent used electricity, 11.5 per cent used solar, 0.8 per cent used candle and 0.5 per cent used generator for getting light. The study indicated that the most significant determinants of kerosene consumption in the area are price of kerosene, distance to kerosene and distance to electricity source. Regarding high consumption of kerosene in the study area, Ministry of Energy need to recheck and refine friendly policy that will promote the use of more efficient and modern sources of energy with good quality light.