Mr. Gitau James Kinyua, PhD student, WMI delivers a seminar on evaluation of efficiency and adoption of biochar producing cooking system in smallholder farms at the Wangari Maathai Institute on October 1, 2019.
Mr. Gitau James Kinyua delivered a seminar on evaluation of efficiency and adoption of biochar producing cooking system in smallholder farms in Kwale County, Kenya at the Wangari Mathai Institute (WMI) on October 1, 2019. Mr. Gitau is a PhD student at the WMI. The seminar presented the opportunity to share the findings of his PhD thesis and also get feedback on his work from those present. His study aimed at reducing indoor air pollution and associated health problems and reduction in firewood consumption. The gasifier cookstove studied has more benefits than open fire three-stone traditional cooking system because its designed for efficient use of fuel, emits less smoke and can also be used for charcoal production. Key points of discussion in the seminar included the cost of the gasifier which may be prohibitive to majority of the rural population. However, formulation of supportive policies could enhance long term usage of the new stove and lower the cost.