Approximately 70% of local communities living adjacent to Kenya’s mangrove forests rely on solid biomass energy (mainly firewood and charcoal) as the primary source of fuel for cooking. This overreliance on traditional cook stoves and solid fuels is an enormous burden on mangrove forests.
In a bid to reduce the pressure on mangroves as well as carbon emissions, Wetlands International has so far provided 53 improved cook stoves in Matondoni Village in Lamu. There are plans to expand the community-led programme across Lamu County, where 60% of Kenya’s mangroves are found. In addition to health and safety benefits for families, the local community has acquired new skills and more.
Watch the video below.