The Ministry of Energy and Green Transition is hosting a national stakeholder engagement to gather input for a new Clean Cooking Policy and Strategy. This plan aims to ensure universal access to clean cooking, with a goal of increasing LPG usage to 50% by 2030, up from the current 36.9%.
Doris Duodo, Head of the Clean Cooking Unit, highlighted the harmful effects of firewood and charcoal use. She explained that these traditional fuels release toxic smoke, leading to severe respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and maternal health complications.
“Over 1,000 people die annually due to smoke inhalation and related health issues, with the number ranging from 7,000 to 10,000 deaths every year,” she noted.
Mrs. Duodo emphasized that clean cooking would reduce exposure to harmful pollutants, which cause lung diseases, eye irritation, and cardiovascular issues, particularly among women and children.
The government is promoting improved cooking stoves to cut down on charcoal use, reduce deforestation, and eliminate smoke exposure. To make clean cooking more accessible, the government has introduced the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM), where small cages filled with gas are placed at local spots for individuals to purchase without visiting gas stations. Mrs. Duodo also stressed the importance of safety education, especially in rural areas.
Dr. Robert Sobagyi, Deputy Director for Renewable Energy and Green Transition, pointed out that relying on firewood and charcoal leads to deforestation and environmental harm, warning of the broader consequences. “Using clean cooking methods with LPG and electric cooking will help protect the environment and reduce maternal mortality linked to poor fuel technologies,” he stated.
He also condemned practices like burning tires in abattoirs, which release harmful chemicals into the air. Dr. Sobagyi advocated for clean cooking to prevent the release of toxic materials that harm health and reduce life expectancy.
Ghana’s Clean Cooking Initiative is a vital step toward reducing respiratory diseases, maternal health risks, deforestation, and air pollution. With proper policy implementation, stakeholder engagement, and public education, Ghana is on track to achieve its 50% LPG usage target by 2030, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable future.
