- Makueni County has stepped up efforts to accelerate the adoption of clean energy and clean cooking technologies in learning institutions.
- County leaders, development partners and financial institutions met at Konza Technopolis to explore sustainable energy solutions.
- The initiative aims to reduce firewood consumption, lower energy costs and create healthier environments for learners and staff.
By Lydia Ngoolo
At a forum held at Konza Technopolis and led by Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr, attended by education leaders, heads of learning institutions, technology providers and development partners, Makueni County Executive Committee Member for Infrastructure, Transport, Public Works and Energy Peter Mumo said the event was aimed at accelerating the transition to clean cooking.
“We showcased available clean cooking technologies and financing options while building a coordinated approach that ensures no institution is left behind,” said Mumo.
He noted that the transition would result in healthier kitchens, lower energy costs, reduced dependence on firewood and greater dignity for the thousands of cooks who keep institutions running daily.
Environmental and Institutional Benefits
Mumo reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to achieving a 100 per cent clean cooking transition across all institutions in Makueni.
“You can imagine that about 95 per cent of firewood is consumed by schools, leading to the depletion of forest cover and its associated consequences. Heads of institutions have shown great commitment towards the transition. Some institutions, such as Matiliku Boys, have already transitioned,” he said.
He added that the county government was working to ensure all stakeholders play their part in achieving the transition.
“We are calling on leaders not merely to anticipate change but to actively participate in it so that learners can enjoy a clean environment and institutions such as hospitals can provide a safe environment for patients,” he said.
Financing Options for Schools
Financial partners, including KCB Bank, said they are targeting schools with a population of more than 350 learners.
The bank conducts energy needs assessments through qualified service providers before financing projects based on approved quotations.
According to KCB, schools can access unsecured loans covering up to 100 per cent of project costs.
Affordable Loan Package
The loans are repayable over a period of five years at an interest rate of 9.75 per cent, making them affordable for institutions that are not profit-making entities.
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The bank also offers a 25-year installation guarantee, a five-year warranty for batteries and inverters, and a one-year service provider warranty.
Partners participating in the initiative included KCB Bank, Equity Bank, SunKing, Fieon and CLASP, among others.
Stakeholders expressed optimism that increased access to financing and technology would accelerate the adoption of clean cooking and renewable energy solutions across schools and other public institutions in Makueni County.
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