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 is part of the county’s concerted efforts to promote clean energy and transition households from depending on the use of firewood and charcoal, hence conserving the environment by reducing deforestation and indoor pollution.
Speaking while distributing the gas cylinders to the beneficiaries, Makueni Deputy Governor (DG) Lucy Mulili said that the enterprise was geared towards alleviating the burden of traditional cooking methods, which disproportionately affect women.
“Kitchen management has traditionally been the responsibility of women in our society. As we mark 30 years since the Beijing Conference, which championed women’s empowerment, this program is not only timely but also transformative.
Thus, it will directly benefit our women by easing their workload, protecting their health, and reducing time spent collecting firewood,” said Mulili, while addressing the beneficiaries.
Consequently, the DG called upon the Members of County Assembly (MCAs) to increase the funding to the Department of Gender that is charged with the responsibility of overseeing the program in the county.
“We are committed to real and practical empowerment for women. This is just one of the initiatives we are implementing to create an enabling environment for economic and social growth for women. The MCAs should increase more funding to bring more households on board,” she said.
The DG lauded the community-based groups for the crucial role they play in fostering sustainable and impactful development at the grassroot level through the different programs they have.
Addressing the same occasion, Kikumbulyu South MCA Jades Kalunda challenged the local residents to be active in public participation, where projects are prioritized and funds allocated to ensure such initiatives succeed.
“I will push for increased funding at the county assembly since this initiative provides alternative cooking solutions not only to safeguard our environment but also empowers women to lead healthier, more sustainable lives. Access to clean energy is a fundamental step toward economic resilience for our communities,” said Kalunda.
Also present was the county executive for gender, Sebastian Kyoni among other county officials.
By Albanus Kioko
