Kigotho Njeru
October 17, 2024
Clean Cooking Campaign to Combat Air Pollution and Climate Change across the County.
By Jilopa K Ezra and Brian Kipukel
The Nakuru County Department of Environment and Climate Change, in collaboration with key partners, launched a Clean Cooking Awareness Campaign across the County. This significant initiative aims to tackle the growing challenges of air pollution and climate change by advocating for the adoption of sustainable, cleaner cooking methods. The campaign is part of the County’s ongoing efforts to improve public health, protect the environment, and enhance the livelihoods of Nakuru residents.
The campaign is aligned with critical county strategies, including the County Integrated Development Plan III (CIDP3), the County Climate Change Action Plan 2022-2027 (CCAP), and the County Energy Plan. These frameworks underscore the County’s commitment to addressing environmental and health concerns by reducing the harmful effects of indoor air pollution, which is a major contributor to respiratory diseases and climate change.
Speaking at the event, Jackline Chemutai, the Environment Officer for Njoro Sub-County, highlighted the urgency of addressing indoor air pollution: “We must recognize the grave health risks posed by traditional cooking methods. Indoor air pollution not only contributes to the rise of respiratory diseases but also to the escalating impacts of climate change. Our goal through this campaign is to educate communities about the benefits of transitioning to cleaner, more efficient cooking solutions that safeguard both their health and the environment.”
The Clean Cooking Campaign officially began on October 14, reaching communities in Rongai, Nakuru Town West, Kuresoi North, Kuresoi South, and Molo Sub-counties through a variety of outreach activities, including roadshows, media engagements, and the distribution of educational materials.
Representatives from the Department of Environment, Anthony Kamau and Kimani Kuria, stressed the importance of this campaign in reducing the widespread impacts of climate change while improving the quality of life for local communities. They emphasized the need for swift action in adopting clean energy practices as an integral part of sustainable development.
This campaign reflects Nakuru County’s dedication to enhancing environmental stewardship while ensuring the health and well-being of its residents. By promoting clean cooking solutions, the County continues to build on its vision for a greener and healthier future.
The campaign has garnered widespread support from environment officers across Nakuru’s 11 sub-counties, ward climate change committees, and various organizations such as Practical Action, Power Up, Nawascoal, GIZ, Necofa, SCODE, and others.