EU, energy centre to produce fuel efficient cook stoves for Borno

The International Centre for Energy, Environment and Development (ICEED), in partnership with Mercy Corps and European Commission, is to implement a project on production of fuel efficient cooking stoves.

The project will, among others, address the rapid rate of deforestation resulting in degradation of watersheds and increased fuel wood collection by Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and communities across Borno State.

It is also aimed at strengthening resilience in six of the LGAs affected by the insurgency in the state.

A statement from ICEED said: “MAIDA project aligns directly with the global objective of the EU’s planned support for early recovery in Borno State. To this end, ICEED is building the capacity of 280 IDPs/ returnees in the production of fuel efficient cook stoves as well as the installation and maintenance of solar PV systems across six LGAs.”

According to the statement, a rapid assessment they conducted in March 2017 across Biu, Hawul, Kwaya Kusar, Mafa, Jere and Maiduguri metropolis showed access to cooking energy is extremely limited.

“The absence of government support for agro-forestry activities and ongoing military activities mean that tree cover has been decreasing dramatically. Other alternatives kerosene like and LPG are mostly nonexistent in many communities, while in very short supply in few,” the statement said.

The Executive Director of ICEED, Ewah Eleri said: “This project seeks to enhance recovery and strengthen resilience in Borno State through capacity building for improved livelihoods as lack of opportunities for employment and meaningful livelihood contributes to youth restiveness and tension.”

“The use of fuel efficient cook stoves produced by the trainees will also reduce the health risks of indoor air pollution in addition to improving efficiency in fuel wood usage and thereby contributing to addressing climate change,” he said.