The Government of Kenya is accelerating its efforts to ensure universal access to clean cooking by 2028, a pivotal step in mitigating the negative impacts associated with traditional fuels like firewood and charcoal. This initiative gained significant momentum with the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum advocating for the adoption of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in schools as a sustainable and efficient alternative.
On Monday, President William Ruto will officially launch the LPG transition for public educational institutions at Jamhuri High School in Nairobi, marking a significant milestone in the country’s commitment to cleaner energy solutions. According to Petroleum Principal Secretary Mohamed Liban, the initiative underscores the government’s focus on promoting sustainable energy use while addressing environmental, health, and social challenges.
Advantages of LPG in Schools
“LPG is preferred over traditional cooking fuels due to its numerous advantages, including easy storage and transportation, reduced carbon emissions compared to firewood and charcoal, consistent burning performance, energy efficiency, and a wide range of applications,” said Liban.
The transition to LPG is poised to enhance health and environmental outcomes for both students and staff. Unlike traditional fuels, which are associated with deforestation and indoor air pollution, LPG burns cleanly, reducing harmful emissions and protecting respiratory health. Moreover, the move supports broader societal goals by improving gender equality, as women and girls are often disproportionately affected by the labor-intensive process of collecting firewood.
Pilot Phase Success
To prepare for the full-scale implementation, the government conducted the Enhanced Liquefied Petroleum Gas Uptake Project (ELUP), a pilot initiative involving 20 educational institutions across multiple counties. Targeting technical institutions, secondary schools, and special education facilities, the pilot benefitted over 30,500 learners.
Under the ELUP, each school received essential LPG infrastructure, including bulk LPG tanks, secure enclosures, kitchen piping, and an initial supply of seed gas. Kitchen staff underwent comprehensive training on LPG use, and sensitization sessions were held to promote safety and awareness.
The pilot phase assessed various factors, including LPG accessibility, cost-effectiveness compared to firewood, and the affordability of refills. It also evaluated the acceptance of LPG use among staff and students and its impact on educational outcomes. Findings demonstrated significant improvements in cooking efficiency, reduced costs in the long term, and positive feedback from the school communities.
Broader National Goals
The transition aligns with Kenya’s National LPG Growth Strategy, a coordinated effort involving multiple government agencies and stakeholders. This strategy aims to enhance LPG infrastructure, streamline its supply chain, and foster adoption in households, schools, and even the transport sector through Autogas initiatives.
In addition to addressing health and environmental concerns, the government envisions LPG as a critical driver of economic growth. The expansion of decentralized energy systems is expected to create entrepreneurial opportunities, generate local jobs, and stimulate economic activity.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite its advantages, transitioning to LPG presents challenges such as price volatility, supply chain gaps, and upfront infrastructure costs. However, the government has devised strategies to address these issues. Plans include reviewing the regulatory framework, developing bulk LPG import and storage facilities, and integrating LPG into broader programs like the Affordable Housing Project.
By supplying LPG to schools, the government is setting a precedent for widespread adoption across other sectors. This initiative not only fosters sustainable development but also equips Kenya to meet its clean cooking targets.
Looking Ahead
As Kenya progresses toward universal clean cooking by 2028, the transition to LPG in schools serves as a vital step in achieving this goal. The program’s success underscores the government’s commitment to a healthier, more sustainable future for all. By addressing the environmental and health risks of traditional fuels, the country is paving the way for transformative change in energy use, with schools leading the charge.
