Makueni: The Makueni county government, through the Department of Gender, Children Social and Sports, has distributed 253 gas cylinders to women and vulnerable families in Kikumbulyu South, Kibwezi West Constituency. The initiative aims to promote clean energy and transition households away from using firewood and charcoal, thereby conserving the environment by reducing deforestation and indoor pollution.
According to Kenya News Agency, Makueni Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili emphasized that the program is designed to alleviate the burden of traditional cooking methods, which disproportionately affect women. She highlighted the significance of this initiative as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Conference, which championed women's empowerment. Mulili stated that the program is timely and transformative, directly benefiting women by easing their workload, protecting their health, and reducing the time spent collecting firewood.
Deputy Governor Mulili also urged Members of County Assembly (MCAs) to increase funding for the Department of Gender, which oversees this program. She emphasized the county's commitment to empowering women through practical initiatives that promote economic and social growth. Mulili commended community-based groups for their role in fostering sustainable development at the grassroots level.
Kikumbulyu South MCA Jades Kalunda, addressing the occasion, encouraged local residents to participate actively in public forums to prioritize projects and allocate funds effectively. Kalunda promised to advocate for increased funding at the county assembly, noting that the initiative provides alternative cooking solutions that safeguard the environment and empower women to lead healthier, more sustainable lives. He emphasized that access to clean energy is a fundamental step toward economic resilience for communities.
The event also saw the presence of the county executive for gender, Sebastian Kyoni, along with other county officials.