The National Renewable Energy Platform (NREP), in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD) together with the Uganda National Alliance on Clean Cooking (UNACC), recently conducted a week- long behavioral change and awareness campaign in Mubende Municipality whilst implementing the Behavioral Change Communication for e-Cooking (BCCeC) Project. The event, held from 18th – 22nd August 2025, aimed to promote the adoption of clean cooking technologies, particularly electric pressure cookers, and raise awareness about their benefits. Funded by the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) through the Modern Energy Cooking Services (MECS), the initiative aimed to accelerate the adoption of electric cooking technologies with a particular focus on electric pressure cookers, in Uganda, as an alternative to traditional biomass fuels like charcoal and firewood. Activities included a one-day stakeholder workshop, a public exhibition, live cooking demonstrations, and community engagement. The event was attended by several stakeholders including government (policy makers, police force, Local council, academia and the media among others. This initiative aimed to engage key stakeholders in the adoption of electric cooking technologies, ultimately contributing to a cleaner environment, improved public health and a sustainable future for Uganda.
Key Highlights and Observations
- The campaign featured an exhibition of clean cooking technologies, including electric pressure cookers, ethanol stoves, LPGs, solar-aided eco-stoves, solar aided stoves and improved cook stoves among others at the Mubende Central Market.
- A live demonstration of e-cooking was conducted, electric pressure cookers were used to prepare matooke, cassava, meat showcasing how our very own local dishes can be prepared.
- An awareness workshop was held at the Kasana Playgrounds, where participants learned about the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, health benefits, and environmental advantages of clean cooking
Speakers and Key Points:
- Paul Nduhuura, Head of Research and Capacity Building at NREP, emphasized the importance of clean cooking technologies in reducing deforestation and promoting sustainable energy.
- Madam Nankabirwa Mary Gorretti, Senior Environment Officer at Mubende Municipal Council, encouraged residents to adopt clean cooking technologies, highlighting their benefits for the environment and public health.
- The Town Clerk, Hon. Omok Paul, urged participants to consider the long-term benefits of clean cooking technologies and encouraged them to adopt these solutions.
Key Highlights
- The campaign aims to promote clean cooking technologies and reduce reliance on traditional biomass
- Stakeholders emphasized the importance of multi- stakeholder collaboration and effective partnerships in supporting clean energy transitions.
- The media fraternity is actively engaging with leaders and stakeholders to capture and amplify the campaign’s messages.
Overall: The Clean Cooking Campaign in Mubende Municipality marked an important step towards promoting sustainable energy access and reducing environmental degradation. With the support of key stakeholders and the media, the campaign is poised to make a significant impact in the region.
Key Challenges and Lessons Learned
Key Challenges
- High upfront costs and lack of financing mechanisms were identified as significant barriers to adopting clean cooking technologies.
- Limited access to electricity and lack of awareness about clean cooking technologies were also cited as
- Electrical safety and Usage Concerns
Lessons Learned
- The live cooking demonstration helped dispel doubts about cooking traditional foods using electric pressure cookers, showcasing their versatility and
- Need for behavioral change towards sustainable cooking practices
- Safety should be a priority while using an electric pressure cooker
- Multi-stakeholder collaboration is crucial for successful clean energy transitions
- Public awareness and advocacy are essential for driving adoption of clean cooking technologies.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Conclusion:
By promoting clean cooking technologies, Uganda can mitigate climate change, improve public health, and foster sustainable development. This initiative aligns with the country’s Vision 2040, which aims to transition 65% of the population to cleaner cooking methods. With the support of key stakeholders and the media, the campaign is poised to make a significant impact in the region.
Next Steps:
NREP and UNACC will conduct follow-up missions to consolidate skills, create more awareness, and encourage the adoption of clean cooking technologies in Mubende. The campaign aims to position Mubende as a model district in advancing Uganda’s clean energy transition, promoting sustainable energy access and reducing environmental degradation.
Moving forward, stakeholders will continue to collaborate, advocate, and implement strategies to drive the adoption of clean cooking technologies. The campaign’s momentum will be sustained through ongoing media engagement, community outreach, and policy support. Together, we can create a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for all.
