Does SSA's clean cooking policy match its ambition?

Over 800 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa lack access to clean cooking fuels, a significant challenge that hampers the region's progress towards achieving the seventh Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) over the next decade. With a focus on fiscal policy revisions, fast-tracked investments, and climate adaptation finance, many nations on the continent are striving to improve access to clean cooking technologies. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Veronica Jakarasi from AECF shed light on the initiatives being undertaken to bridge the gap between policy ambitions and implementation in the clean cooking space. One of the key themes discussed was the urgent need to address indoor pollution caused by traditional cooking methods, which continues to claim the lives of women and children in the region. Jakarasi highlighted the importance of clean cooking technologies that use less wood fuel and charcoal, while also emphasizing the role of additional solutions such as ethanol cooking, biogas, and sustainable electricity access for rural communities. Governments are stepping up to support these initiatives, with projects like the Tanzania Clean Cooking Project being launched to accelerate the adoption of affordable clean cooking solutions in marginalized communities. Jakarasi pointed out that many governments are now offering green incentives and tax rebates to reduce the cost of clean technologies and promote renewable energy access. This has led to a significant investment flow into clean cooking technologies, benefitting rural communities across Africa. However, challenges remain in making these technologies more affordable and widely available to end-users. Access to technology and resources for research and development are crucial areas that need attention to drive innovation and adoption in the clean cooking space. AECF, in collaboration with the Swedish government, has initiated the Tanzania Clean Cooking Project to provide performance-based financing and technical assistance to qualifying companies, supporting them in achieving milestones and enhancing their operational capacity. The role of the private sector in advancing clean cooking solutions was also discussed, with Jakarasi highlighting the benefits of local manufacturing over importing technologies. Local production not only reduces costs but also creates job opportunities within the communities where these technologies are needed. Moreover, it aligns with the growing demand for carbon credits in the clean cooking market, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and industry growth in the region. Looking ahead to COP27, Jakarasi emphasized the need for clear targets on energy access and enhanced financing mechanisms to support small and growing enterprises in the clean cooking sector. Advocating for increased climate financing that prioritizes the needs of marginalized communities and fosters sustainable development, AECF aims to drive meaningful change in the transition towards clean cooking solutions in Sub-Saharan Africa. The organization is committed to lobbying for accessible funding opportunities that empower local businesses and promote equitable access to clean energy solutions across the value chain.