In the heart of Makuyu, Murang’a County, the glow of energy-efficient cooking stoves is illuminating not just kitchens but the lives of over 500 households.

Kakuzi PLC has embarked on the fourth phase of its transformative Jiko Kisasa project, demonstrating a powerful commitment to sustainable energy and community empowerment.

With an impressive investment exceeding Sh15 million, Kakuzi has significantly expanded its reach since launching the project in 2021.

The initiative has now benefitted a total of 1,500 households, a remarkable feat achieved through the provision of Jiko Kisasa stoves, which are designed to reduce fuel consumption and harmful emissions.

This innovative approach not only aims to promote cleaner cooking but also seeks to empower local communities through training and economic opportunities.

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At the recent handover ceremony, Kakuzi Managing Director, Christopher Flowers, underscored the vital role of community engagement.

“We are collaborating with all local community members, including youth, women and elders, to enhance the sustainability of the project while providing an income-generating opportunity for the participants. This goes a long way in making them custodians of their environment,” he stated, highlighting the inclusive nature of the initiative.

The Jiko Kisasa stoves, renowned for their insulated fire chambers, enable users to cook more efficiently, using significantly less firewood while mitigating the dangers of indoor air pollution.

A study by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH (GIZ) revealed that these stoves can save households between 35 and 55 per cent of firewood compared to traditional cooking methods.

With their thermal efficiency rated at 20 to 25 per cent higher, they are not only a win for families but also for the environment, aiding in the battle against deforestation.

What sets this project apart is its dual impact: training community members to construct and maintain these stoves while sourcing materials locally.

In collaboration with GIZ, Kakuzi has empowered 101 youths with the skills needed for installation and maintenance, creating pathways for income generation.

Moreover, the company has partnered with female-led micro-enterprises, ensuring that local women benefit economically from the project.

Beyond the tangible benefits of cleaner cooking and reduced fuel costs, this initiative fosters a sense of community pride and ownership.

Over 1,000 households have already participated in training sessions focusing on the importance of clean cooking and environmental conservation, further instilling a culture of sustainability within the region.

As the new Jiko Kisasa stoves are welcomed into homes, they represent more than just a cooking appliance.

They are a symbol of progress, resilience, and the potential for economic independence.

With each stove installed, Kakuzi PLC is not only enhancing the quality of life for families in Makuyu but is also weaving a stronger fabric of community support and environmental stewardship.

This pioneering project illustrates a profound commitment to social responsibility, and as Kakuzi continues to drive forward, the people of Makuyu can look forward to a brighter, cleaner, and more sustainable future.