Safi e-cooker, an initiative of Safi International is fast claiming its space in Kibera as the latest 'clean and safe' energy for the residents.
Since its inception in Kibera a year ago, the cooker which uses ethanol as fuel has been considered environment friendly and economical for the residents.
"This is clean energy that is environment friendly since it produces no smoke as compared to other sources of energy. A cooker goes for Sh2,500 while a litre of ethanol retails at Sh110. This is economical for the locals who for a long time have been spending a lot of money on energy," said Antony Ojowi, Sales Manager at Safi International on Monday at their offices.
On the question of availability of ethanol, Ojowi says the fuel is readily available in Kenya.
"Ethanol is produced locally and in abundance especially in Mumias Sugar Company. People should not worry about ethanol because we have designated areas where we source the fuel. Furthermore, this is a product that can be made using many raw materials such as cassava, potatoes and mangoes," he assured.
According to Felix Okoth, the Operations Manager, the initiative has created jobs for many especially those who work for the organisation as agents.
“We started with a pilot project in Kibera before rolling it out to other areas including Kawangware, Embakasi and Kisumu. We received instant reception as the residents came out to buy all the cookers we had for a start. So far the organisation 30 employees who have been directly hired, with 200 others work indirectly as agents."
Safi International is now set to host a mega launch of the project in Kibera where sensitisation shall be a priority to make residents understand more about the new method of cooking.
The event which is scheduled for September 17 shall bring together various leaders across the country headed by Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero and Kibra MP Ken Okoth.
"We have organised a grand launch of the project on September 17 at Kibera Social grounds where personalities will come together to flag off the initiative. We shall have residents giving testimonies about the cooker so far. Our official ambassador Stella Mwangi (STL) will lead the entertainment," added Felix.