Advancing clean cooking transition in Rwanda

Rwanda is making significant strides in advancing its clean cooking transition as part of its commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7, which aims to provide universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services. With approximately 2.8 billion people worldwide lacking access to clean cooking fuels and technologies, the country has set ambitious targets to reduce its reliance on biomass for cooking by 50% within a seven-year timeframe, starting from 2017. Juliet Kabera, the Director General of the Rwanda Environment Management Authority, emphasized the critical importance of implementing firm and coherent policies to drive this transition during an interview with CNBC Africa. Kabera highlighted the challenges in transitioning away from biomass, noting that both households and industries form key consumer segments for such fuels. Industries like tea processing facilities and institutions such as schools and prisons have traditionally relied on wood for their cooking and heating needs. However, she acknowledged the progress made in encouraging cleaner cooking methods, particularly among institutions like the Rwandan National Police and prisons, which have embraced more sustainable practices. The involvement of the private sector has been instrumental in accelerating Rwanda's clean cooking agenda. Kabera commended the contributions of private sector investors in manufacturing and supplying energy-efficient cook stoves, emphasizing their role in driving innovation and meeting market demand. She stressed the importance of raising awareness about the benefits of transitioning to cleaner cooking options, noting that public education and engagement are essential to catalyzing widespread adoption of sustainable practices. To address issues of stove maintenance and ownership, Kabera proposed a shift towards empowering households to produce their own improved cook stoves or establishing community-based manufacturers to support local production. Additionally, she underscored the significance of ensuring the quality and efficiency of available cook stove options, citing the role of the Rwanda Standards Board in testing and certifying the performance of these devices. In conclusion, Kabera emphasized the need for a multifaceted approach to advancing clean cooking initiatives, stressing the importance of offering diverse options to consumers and fostering a culture of demand for sustainable solutions. By prioritizing awareness, empowerment, and quality control, Rwanda aims to lead the way in promoting clean cooking practices that benefit both individuals and the environment.