Kakamega Women Transform Waste into Smokeless Coal Briquettes: A Journey of Empowerment and Environmental Stewardship

A group of 20 women, representing a blend of youth and experience, gather daily in a circle, their heads bowed in concentration. They are members of New Recada, an innovative community group committed to a cleaner, greener future. Their mission: to turn waste into smokeless coal briquettes, providing a sustainable solution to environmental degradation and energy poverty.

New Recada’s journey began with a simple yet profound objective: to clean the environment by collecting solid waste. However, the group’s vision quickly expanded. Recognizing the potential to address multiple challenges simultaneously, they pivoted towards producing eco-friendly, smokeless charcoal briquettes. This shift not only tackles the pressing issue of waste management but also contributes to the fight against climate change and the promotion of clean energy.

The women of New Recada employ an ingenious method to create their smokeless briquettes. They start by collecting paper waste and charcoal dust, materials that would otherwise contribute to environmental pollution. These components are then meticulously processed and compacted into briquettes, which burn cleaner and longer than traditional charcoal.

The process involves several key steps:

Collection: Gathering paper waste and charcoal dust from local sources.
Preparation: Shredding and mixing the materials to create a uniform blend.
Compaction: Using manual presses to form the mixture into briquettes.
Drying: Allowing the briquettes to dry under the sun, making them ready for use.

The introduction of smokeless briquettes has brought numerous benefits to the Kakamega community and beyond:

Environmental Benefits: By repurposing waste materials, New Recada significantly reduces the amount of garbage that ends up in landfills. The smokeless briquettes also emit fewer pollutants, helping to improve air quality and mitigate the effects of climate change.
Economic Empowerment: The women involved in New Recada gain financial independence and stability through the sale of briquettes. This economic activity not only supports their families but also stimulates the local economy.
Health Improvements: Traditional charcoal burning is associated with respiratory issues due to smoke inhalation. The smokeless briquettes provide a healthier alternative, reducing the incidence of related health problems.

New Recada’s initiative exemplifies the potential of grassroots movements to effect meaningful change. By transforming waste into a valuable resource, these women are not only cleaning their environment but also promoting sustainable energy practices.

Their success has attracted attention from various stakeholders, including local government officials and environmental organizations, who see this model as replicable in other regions. Support and investment in such initiatives could amplify their impact, contributing to broader environmental and economic goals.