The Kaduna State Government has commenced the distribution of clean cooking stoves to households as part of efforts to reduce deforestation, curb carbon emissions and improve public health outcomes.
The initiative, implemented in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment, is aimed at promoting the adoption of cleaner energy alternatives and addressing environmental challenges linked to traditional cooking methods.
Speaking at the flag-off in Kaduna, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Abubakar Buba, said the programme is designed to tackle climate change, environmental degradation and indoor air pollution in the state. He was represented at the event by Ahmed Abdullahi, Director of Administration and Finance in the ministry.
Buba said the adoption of clean cooking technologies would significantly reduce reliance on firewood and other biomass fuels, helping to limit deforestation and lower greenhouse gas emissions while improving household air quality.
The initiative aligns with the environmental sustainability agenda of Governor Uba Sani and forms part of broader efforts to build climate resilience and support sustainable livelihoods.
Also speaking, Abdurrahman Bashir, Director of the Climate Change Department at the Federal Ministry of Environment, said the programme is part of the Presidential Initiative on Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation.
He noted that traditional cooking practices remain a major source of indoor air pollution and environmental degradation, adding that the rollout supports the National Clean Cooking Policy, which aims to expand access to clean energy solutions by 2030.
Bashir said the initiative would also include community sensitisation and capacity-building efforts to encourage proper use and maintenance of the stoves.
Beneficiaries of the programme said the clean cooking stoves would reduce exposure to harmful smoke, lower fuel costs and improve overall well-being, particularly for women who are most affected by indoor air pollution.
Officials said the intervention is expected to contribute to reduced carbon emissions, improved health outcomes and enhanced environmental sustainability across communities in the state.
