Wedoany.com Report on Mar 2nd, The Nigerian Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has signed an agreement with Clean Sustainable Renewable Energy Solutions Ltd. to distribute four million ECOCA solar electric cookstoves nationwide, as part of the Green Economy Empowerment 774 program.
The agreement, signed by Permanent Secretary Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye on behalf of the Ministry, in collaboration with the team led by Minister Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, aims to accelerate the adoption of clean cooking solutions, reduce indoor air pollution, support Nigeria's climate goals, and promote gender equality and economic inclusion.
Data shows that approximately 95,000 people die annually in Nigeria from indoor air pollution, with women and children facing significant health risks due to smoke from traditional cooking methods. The promotion of solar cookstoves is expected to significantly reduce harmful emissions, improve respiratory health, and alleviate household burdens.
Beyond health benefits, this solar cookstove initiative will also help women save time and physical effort associated with collecting firewood and charcoal, enabling greater participation in education, entrepreneurship, and other activities, thereby enhancing their economic empowerment.
Each stove can offset approximately 4.5 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, contributing to Nigeria's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060, aligning with its Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement, and helping combat deforestation and environmental degradation.
Minister Sulaiman-Ibrahim emphasized: "The clean cooking initiative reflects our commitment to integrating environmental sustainability with women's empowerment and inclusive economic growth. Investing in renewable household energy solutions not only protects vulnerable groups but also strengthens community resilience in the face of climate change."
The Ministry views this partnership as a strategic measure under the GEE774 framework, aiming to achieve sustainable development across all 774 Local Government Areas, and calls for support from all stakeholders to ensure effective delivery of the solar cookstoves to beneficiaries and generate positive impact.
