Government Pushes Clean Cooking Agenda to Combat Respiratory Diseases

By Our Reporter Maurice Momanyi

The government has intensified efforts to promote clean cooking solutions as part of a wider strategy to reduce respiratory diseases and improve public health across the country. Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary James Opiyo Wandayi said millions of Kenyans remain exposed to harmful indoor air pollution due to continued reliance on firewood and charcoal for cooking.

Speaking during the opening of a two-day Respiratory Medical Camp at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) Siaya Campus, Wandayi noted that an estimated 9.1 million households still depend on traditional cooking fuels. He warned that prolonged exposure to smoke from these fuels continues to contribute to respiratory illnesses, eye problems and other health complications, particularly among women, children and the elderly.

To address the challenge, the Cabinet Secretary said the government is implementing the Kenya National Cooking Transition Strategy 2024-2028, which aims to achieve universal access to clean cooking by 2028. The strategy brings together initiatives such as the Bioenergy Strategy, LPG Growth Strategy, Electric Cooking Strategy and the Bioethanol Masterplan to expand access to safe, affordable and sustainable cooking technologies suited to different communities.

Wandayi said the ministry is focusing on increasing the availability of clean cooking technologies, making them more affordable, promoting local manufacturing and fuel production, and enhancing public awareness of the health, environmental and economic benefits of clean cooking. He added that these interventions are expected to create employment opportunities while strengthening Kenya’s economy.

The Cabinet Secretary also urged county governments to take advantage of the Integrated National Energy Plan (INEP) 2023-2043, which places counties at the centre of energy planning and implementation. He encouraged residents attending the medical camp to make use of the free health screening services, stressing that early diagnosis and prevention remain critical in protecting public health while the country works towards cleaner energy and healthier communities.