By Elizabeth Wanjiku Benson
The County Government of Nakuru has intensified the rollout of improved cook stoves across public primary schools, with Chief Officers Francis Njoroge and Dr. Michael Cheruiyot visiting Moi Comprehensive School in London ward to assess the performance of the newly installed system. The installation at Moi Primary is part of a broader countywide programme under FLLoCA that has seen smart, energy-efficient stoves installed in multiple schools to promote clean cooking solutions in learning institutions.
During the visit, the officers who were also accompanied by the Efficiency Monitoring Unit (EMU) officer Martin Gichinga and Joseph Njuguna from the County Public Service Board (CPSB) inspected the stove and engaged the school administration and kitchen staff on its efficiency and impact. The school cook reported significant improvements in daily operations, noting reduced firewood consumption, faster cooking time, and a smoke-free kitchen environment that has enhanced safety and working conditions.
The improved cook stove, commonly referred to as a smart jiko, is constructed using locally available bricks and fitted with a specially designed cone that enhances heat circulation and retention. This design directs most of the heat to the cooking pot, minimising energy loss, reducing fuel use, and lowering operational costs. Unlike traditional open-fire cooking methods, the system produces minimal to no smoke, improving indoor air quality and reducing health risks for kitchen staff.
Beyond cost savings, the initiative aligns with the county’s broader clean energy and climate resilience strategy under the Financing Locally Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) programme. By reducing reliance on firewood and improving energy efficiency, the rollout contributes to environmental conservation, lower carbon emissions, and sustainable resource use within public institutions.
The continued installation of improved cook stoves across schools reflects Governor Susan Kihika’s commitment to sustainable development, ensuring that public institutions adopt environmentally responsible solutions while improving efficiency, cutting costs, and supporting better learning environments for Nakuru’s children.