University of Kabianga, University of Manchester lead climate-resilient initiative

University of Kabianga. [Courtesy, University of Kabianga]]

University of Kabianga, in partnership with the University of Manchester, has launched a transformative clean energy project to promote the adoption of Improved Cookstoves (ICS) in Kericho County.

The initiative is aimed at tackling indoor air pollution, deforestation, and climate change, while empowering women economically.

Dr Rev Edwin Too, Registrar at the University of Kabianga, said the initiative aligns with Kenya’s Vision 2030, the Kenya National Cooking Transition Strategy (KNCTS), and global development frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement.

According to a baseline survey conducted by the University of Kabianga, over 93 per cent of households in Kipkelion East and Belgut constituencies still rely on firewood and traditional three-stone cookstoves with thermal efficiencies below 10 per cent.

 “These practices not only expose families, especially women and children, to harmful indoor air pollutants but also contribute significantly to forest degradation and greenhouse gas emissions,” said Too.

As a solution, the study piloted the Lorena cookstove prototype, which recorded a thermal efficiency of 24 per cent.

The Lorena cookstove, measuring 24 x 36 feet, features two burners, one for cooking and another for warming food, as well as a smoke vent. Constructed using cement, bricks, and lime, the stove is cost-effective, with materials averaging Sh5,000.

“As the University of Kabianga, we are proud to champion this innovative approach to clean cooking that not only mitigates environmental and health risks but also places women at the forefront of climate resilience,” said Too.

He noted that two women’s groups from the targeted sub-counties have been trained and equipped with both technical and financial skills to construct and distribute the Lorena cookstoves.

The project has received overwhelming support from residents.

Zeddy Bett, a resident of Kipchabai village in Soin/Sigowet constituency, shared her experience after transitioning from the traditional three-stone stove to the Lorena cookstove.

“I now use fewer pieces of firewood, and my cooking time has reduced by almost 30 minutes. Most importantly, I no longer suffer from frequent coughing caused by smoke inhalation,” she said.

Eureka Chepngetich, Chairperson of the Kipkalyo Women’s Group based in Kiptere, said her group is in the process of constructing Lorena stoves for its 20 members.