Kano Begins Distribution of 3,400 Clean Cooking Stoves to Vulnerable Women

From Mustapha Adamu, Kano

The Kano State Government has commenced the distribution of 3,400 clean cooking stoves donated by the Federal Ministry of Environment to vulnerable women across the state.

The Commissioner for Environment, Water and Climate Change, Dr Dahir M. Hashim, supervised the launch of the initiative on Sunday, with the first batch of 800 stoves distributed to beneficiaries.

Hashim also announced that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf provided each of the 800 beneficiaries with ₦25,000 to support their small businesses and improve their livelihoods.

According to the commissioner, the clean cooking initiative forms part of the state government’s broader efforts to reduce carbon emissions, promote cleaner energy and protect public health.

He said the administration had also taken steps to expand the use of renewable energy through the solarisation of streetlights and several Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

Hashim noted that many women had for years been exposed to harmful smoke from traditional firewood cooking, increasing their vulnerability to respiratory illnesses and other health problems.

He said the clean cooking stoves would significantly reduce exposure to harmful smoke while providing beneficiaries with a safer and more environmentally friendly means of preparing meals.

“This intervention aligns with our broader mission of cutting down emissions to the barest minimum. We have already witnessed the solarisation of our streetlights and many of our MDAs,” Hashim said.

“For years, our women have endured severe health hazards from inhaling toxic firewood smoke. These new stoves will drastically reduce these risks and protect them from respiratory diseases.”

The commissioner thanked the Federal Ministry of Environment for donating the 3,400 stoves and commended Governor Yusuf for supporting climate action and economic empowerment programmes targeting grassroots communities.