ADVERT 
Households in Siaya County are being urged to transition to clean cooking solutions in a bold push to curb rising cases of respiratory illnesses linked to indoor air pollution.
In a joint initiative, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), Siaya County Government, Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) Siaya, and the Chronic Diseases Society have intensified calls for residents to abandon traditional fuels such as firewood, charcoal, and kerosene in favor of cleaner alternatives.
The appeal comes amid growing concern over the health risks posed by household air pollution, which continues to affect millions of Kenyans—especially in rural communities.
Guided by the Siaya County Climate Change Action Plan (2023–2028), local authorities are scaling up awareness campaigns to reduce reliance on biomass fuels while promoting sustainable energy use. Experts warn that burning solid fuels releases harmful pollutants that significantly increase the risk of asthma, bronchitis, allergies, and other chronic lung diseases.
Speaking during a two-day medical outreach camp in the county, EPRA Acting Director General Dr. Eng. Joseph Oketch emphasized the Authority’s commitment to advancing clean energy adoption nationwide.
“EPRA has worked closely with stakeholders to create a safe and enabling regulatory environment for clean cooking solutions such as electric cooking, LPG, and biogas,” said Dr. Oketch. “Through licensing, infrastructure expansion, and consumer education, we are ensuring Kenyans have access to safer and more efficient cooking technologies.”
The medical camp provided residents with free consultations, respiratory screenings, diagnosis, and treatment services, while also offering practical demonstrations on clean cooking technologies and energy efficiency.
Health experts at the camp highlighted the urgent need for behavioral change, noting that prolonged exposure to indoor smoke remains a silent killer in many households.
Currently, an estimated 9.1 million Kenyans—equivalent to 68.5 percent of households—still rely on traditional fuels for cooking and heating. This includes approximately 1.7 million urban households and a staggering 7.4 million rural homes, placing millions at risk of preventable respiratory diseases.
Officials say transitioning to clean cooking is not just a health intervention, but also a climate and economic imperative.
As Kenya accelerates its clean energy agenda, Siaya County is positioning itself at the forefront of the shift—calling on residents to embrace safer cooking methods and safeguard their health, environment, and future.
— END —
