Protect Zambian Forests with Clean Cookstoves

Nestled in the heart of Chipangali District in Eastern Province, Zambia, lies the rural village of Chinunda. For generations, the community relied on traditional cooking methods, burning firewood and charcoal in open pits or basic stoves. The consequences were dire: women and children suffered from debilitating respiratory diseases, and the environment bore the brunt of rampant deforestation.

But in 2022, everything changed. Our organization introduced an improved clean cookstove design, tailored to the community's specific needs. The new stoves burned fuel more efficiently, reducing smoke emissions by 70% and cooking time by 50%.

For 35-year-old mother of four, Mary , the impact was immediate. "I used to spend hours gathering firewood and tending to the fire," she recalls. "Now, with the new stove, I can cook faster and cleaner. My children no longer complain of headaches and coughs from the smoke."

The benefits extended far beyond individual households. With reduced demand for firewood, the village saw a significant decrease in deforestation. Local wildlife began to flourish, and the community's natural springs, once threatened by erosion, began to recharge.

As news of the improved cookstoves spread, neighboring villages took notice. Chinunda became a model for sustainable cooking practices, with community members sharing their expertise and advocating for widespread adoption.

Today, over 500 households in Chinunda village cook with cleaner, more efficient stoves. Respiratory illnesses have plummeted, and the environment is thriving. As Mary  proudly declares, "Our village is a healthier, happier place, thanks to these wonderful stoves."

Key Impact Statistics:

• 70% reduction in smoke emissions
• 50% reduction in cooking time
• 500+ households adopting improved cookstoves
• Significant decrease in deforestation and associated environmental degradation
• Reduction in respiratory illnesses among women and children

Future Plans:

• Expand improved cookstove adoption to neighboring villages
• Establish a local stove production facility, creating jobs and stimulating the local economy
• Develop a comprehensive sustainability plan, ensuring long-term environmental and health benefits for the community