With an energy-saving stove now in place, we visited Ann from the Kanja Self Help Group and were amazed by the transformation. Since installing the stove a month ago, it has become a beautiful, clean fixture in her kitchen, significantly improving her cooking experience.
She is now comfortably cooking tea. “My back used to ache a lot from bending over while using the traditional three cooking stones,” Ann shares. She highlights how the new stove has made a significant difference in her daily life.
Ann, a middle-aged member of the Kanja Self Help Group in Rwarera location, is one of the many beneficiaries of energy-saving stoves from CIFORD Kenya.
“These stoves need just two pieces of wood to cook your family’s meal. It is pocket and forest-friendly,” Ann adds contentedly as she rekindles the fire. She isn’t the only beneficiary.
Stella Kaumbuthu, a Hope for Future Generation Group member has also discovered that the energy-saving stoves are quite helpful. Stella can now cook more easily and effectively even with a broken leg. “Before, managing the traditional stove was challenging, especially with my injury,” Stella says. “I can cook with just two pieces of wood and considerably less effort. . It’s better for the environment as well as easier on my injury.”
She adds that it is possible to go a long time without having to fall a tree for firewood. “I no longer worry about finding firewood with this stove. Three cooking stones uses a lot of firewood. However, they are still three times slower than the stoves,” she reveals.
“I have one grandchild who loves spending time with her grandmother, that is me,” Zipporah chuckles. She is a member of the Kiare Upendo Group. She goes on, “These stoves are perfect for us. They are safe to use around little ones. I can navigate the kitchen with my grandkid without any worries. Plus, they cook food much faster, saving us valuable time. It’s been a wonderful change for both our safety and efficiency in the kitchen.”
John, an area manager from Kairune Unit in Rwarera location, is also pleased with his contribution to climate action. “We used to cut trees until it stopped raining. Now, we no longer need to cut trees for firewood and charcoal,” John observes. He is relieved from back pain with the new stove, avoiding the discomfort of bending over the traditional three stones.
He adds that the stoves keep the kitchen beautiful and clean. This reduces the risks associated with poor hygiene. “It produces a small amount of ash and smoke keeping the kitchen environment tidy. This reduces health hazards related to food contamination.”
The adoption of energy-saving stoves has made significant strides in climate action. Deforestation has been reduced,carbon emissions have been cut hence improving air quality. This shift boosts environmental sustainability and improves community well-being through safer, more efficient cooking practices.
