A women-led initiative in Vihiga County is transforming lives through the promotion of energy-saving stoves, locally known as jiko kisasa.
The group, dubbed the Jiko Kisasa Group, is championing the use of improved cookstoves that drastically reduce firewood consumption, indoor air pollution, and deforestation.
Unlike traditional three-stone fires, these stoves emit significantly less smoke, offering safer and cleaner kitchens for families.
The initiative also comes with major social and economic benefits, including time savings, reduced health risks, and empowerment for local women through income-generating activities.
According to project manager Peter Mwaura, the initiative began in the Keveye area as a way to empower women while addressing health and environmental concerns.
“We started making these jikos after realising how dangerous the traditional three-stone fires were to families,” Mwaura explained.
The stoves, crafted from locally available materials, are designed to burn fuel more efficiently and produce less smoke.
“Every stove we sell helps a household save on firewood and avoid smoke-related health issues,” he added.
Since its inception, the project has sold hundreds of energy-saving stoves across Vihiga and neighboring counties, with ambitions of national reach.
“Our goal is to see every household in Vihiga—and eventually across the country—using a clean, safe cooking solution,” said Mwaura.
Despite the progress, the group faces challenges in raising awareness and making the stoves more affordable.
“Not many people know about our jikos, and some still prefer the cheaper, traditional ones,” he noted.
With continued support and outreach, the Jiko Kisasa initiative hopes to bring cleaner, safer cooking solutions to more homes, one stove at a time.
By Marion Salano
