Kenya to achieve universal access to clean cooking by 2028

Kenya is making significant strides towards achieving universal access to clean cooking by the year 2028, a goal that is crucial for improving health, protecting the environment, and driving economic growth. Elly Odhiambo, the National Coordinator at the Clean Cooking Association of Kenya (CCAK), highlighted the progress and challenges faced in this endeavor during a recent interview with CNBC Africa. Elly Odhiambo noted that there has been notable progress in transitioning households, institutions, and commercial entities towards adopting clean cooking solutions in Kenya. Despite the positive momentum, a substantial portion of the population, particularly in rural areas, still rely on traditional cooking methods. Approximately 68.5% of Kenyans continue to use these methods, indicating the need for accelerated efforts to ensure universal access to clean cooking solutions. While the target of 2028 may seem ambitious, Odhiambo expressed optimism about the country's trajectory towards achieving this goal. The government of Kenya has implemented various supportive policies to facilitate the adoption of clean cooking technologies. The Kenya National Clean Transition Strategy, along with other policy documents such as the Kenya National Electric Cooking Strategy and behavior change communication strategies, serve as guiding frameworks for industry stakeholders. Despite these positive policy measures, challenges remain, particularly in terms of accessibility and affordability of clean cooking solutions. Rural populations, in particular, face difficulties in accessing these technologies, while the affordability of modern cooking appliances poses a barrier to widespread adoption. To address these challenges, various initiatives have been introduced, including end-user financing schemes, subsidy programs, and incentives to support the market infrastructure for clean cooking solutions. Additionally, innovative technologies and business models are being developed to drive the transition towards cleaner cooking practices in the country. In conclusion, Kenya's journey towards universal access to clean cooking by 2028 represents a critical step towards improving public health, preserving the environment, and fostering economic development. With a supportive policy framework and concerted efforts from stakeholders across the sector, the vision of clean cooking for all Kenyans is within reach.