At COP29 in Azerbaijan, the African Union (AU) and Tanzania are spearheading efforts to place clean cooking at the forefront of the global climate agenda.
The high-level side event, titled “Addressing Clean Cooking Challenges in Africa: A Call for African Leadership,” scheduled for 12 November 2024, will convene African leaders, policymakers, and international stakeholders to tackle the critical issue of clean cooking. With 70% of Africa’s population relying on traditional cooking methods, the event underscores the urgency of political leadership, innovative partnerships, and significant financial investment to achieve sustainable clean cooking solutions.
Clean cooking is integral to Africa’s climate and development goals. Through its African Clean Cooking Program (ACCP), the AU has prioritised clean cooking as a vital component of climate action, health improvement, and energy efficiency. The ACCP aligns with Agenda 2063, aiming to reduce emissions, foster innovation, and improve public health across the continent. Tanzania has emerged as a leader in this space, with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s Women Clean Cooking Support Programme (AWCCSP) serving as a model for gender-inclusive approaches to addressing energy and climate challenges. Other countries, such as Ghana and Kenya, have also made significant progress in promoting alternatives like LPG and improved cookstoves.
Also read: Tanzania leads Africa in food self-sufficiency with 128% surplus
Clean cooking is not only a development imperative but also a climate solution. Studies indicate it could reduce emissions by up to 1.5 gigatons by 2030, contributing to energy efficiency and advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as SDG 7 (clean energy), SDG 3 (health), SDG 5 (gender equality), and SDG 13 (climate action). The transition to clean cooking enhances energy security, reduces health risks associated with traditional cooking, and promotes gender equity by alleviating the burden of fuel collection on women and girls.
During the COP29 event, the AU Energy Commission (AFREC) will launch the publication “Sustainable Scaling: Meeting the Clean Cooking Challenge in Africa.” This roadmap outlines innovative financing models, public-private partnerships, and policy frameworks essential for scaling clean cooking technologies.
Platforms like this high-level event, Africa is showcasing bold leadership, reinforcing its commitment to clean energy access, and setting an example for global partnerships in climate action.
