STATE DEPARTMENT FOR CORRECTIONAL SERVICES SET TO ADOPT CLEAN COOKING

By Nicholas Kigondu

The State Department for Correctional Services has initiated the process of adopting clean cooking across its 135 Prison facilities.

Principal Secretary Dr. Salome Beacco says the plan, that will adopt the Rapid Results Initiative strategy, will allow for the migration from use of wood fuel to liquid petroleum gas in a move aimed at cutting energy cost.

Speaking during a meeting with senior officers from the department, the PS said the cost of wood fuel in prisons continues to constitute significant budgetary burden with substantial funds spent annually on firewood for cooking.

She directed the formation of a technical committee comprising of officers from the department and experts drawn from relevant government ministries and departments including that of environment and energy with the team expected to provide a concrete plan over the next two weeks.

The Lang’ata Women’s Maximum Prison has already successfully transitioned to modern LPG gas cookers in its kitchen in a move that has enhanced safety and reduced smoke exposure besides reducing operational costs.

Besides reducing the cost associated with firewood, the PS said a complete shift to cleaner, non-solid fuels will in turn improve indoor air quality thereby improving health outcomes for those living within correctional settings.