The initiative, implemented in partnership with Afrox and international collaborators, marks the start of a clean cooking drive aimed at reducing reliance on charcoal and firewood.
Minister of Community Development and Social Services Doreen Mwamba said the donation goes beyond providing cooking fuel, describing it as a step toward protecting vulnerable families and preserving the environment.
“When climate shocks occur, poor and vulnerable households are the most affected. By adopting cleaner energy alternatives such as gas stoves, we reduce dependence on charcoal and firewood, protect our forests and help families graduate from poverty,” Mwamba said.
She explained that the intervention forms part of a “cash plus” social protection package, complementing the Social Cash Transfer programme by equipping families with practical tools to improve their livelihoods.
Afrox Director Sanjay Misra described the launch as one of Zambia’s first Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) micro-filling stations.
“This is the first of its kind in Zambia, aimed at providing affordable, clean cooking solutions to the community. Based on the success of this pilot, we plan to expand to other communities,” Misra said.
Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the support, noting that access to cleaner cooking energy will reduce household expenses, minimise smoke-related health risks and create safer kitchen environments.
They added that the initiative will not only protect their children’s health but also free up time for other productive activities, contributing to improved livelihoods across the community.
Are you sure it is government distributing these cylinders? Not Saudi Arabia?