Stanslous Ruvengo

CHIVI – The Development Aid from People to People (DAPP), working in close cooperation with Chivi District Council, has introduced an affordable tsotso stove which utilizes little wood for fuel.

For its part, DAPP provides equipment for women to construct the fuel-efficient stoves which has been proven to be effective in reducing deforestation, preserving bio-diversity and in conserving tree life.

Under this programme, women volunteers are trained in the production and adoption of the stove.

Clementine Chikandavira a DAPP programmes official told EnviroPress that the adoption of the fuel -efficient stoves in rural communities was set to reduce wood consumption thus helping to conserve the environment.

“Clearer and cleaner burning processes associated with this stove decreases indoor air pollution as the fire does not go up directly in smoke. Rather, much of the energy produced heats up the object sitting on the fuel-efficient stove,” Chikandavira said.

She said the stove was going to make life easier for rural women as they will now spend less time gathering firewood in the bush.

“This ultimately adds more time available to be at home with children, and to prepare food for the family,” she said.

Gladys Chingava of Gwenyaya Village in Ward 16, being one of the volunteers and beneficiaries, expressed delight at gaining the skills needed to build the stove from scratch.

“I am fortunate to be part of the programme as I have gained new knowledge on how to build the fuel-efficient stove, and I consider this to be a form of empowerment. I hope more women like me in this district will also get an opportunity to participate,” said Gwenyanya.

She said she found the stove particularly vital in helping to preserve the diminishing wood resources in the semi-arid district.