During the launch of a Taifa Gas terminal in Mombasa on Friday, Kenyan President William Ruto directed the Energy Minister to work towards the removal of taxes on cooking gas, with the aim of eliminating the use of wood fuel throughout the country.
The President stated that within three years, every household in Kenya should be using subsidized cooking gas, which will result in health benefits and help restore the environment by reducing the number of trees felled for fuel.
Ruto pointed out that 70% of Kenyans currently use firewood to cook, causing health complications from smoke, especially among women.
To combat illegal gas filling, Ruto also ordered the Energy Ministry to work with the Interior Ministry.
Additionally, the government will consider providing free gas cylinders or charging minimal fees.
This move is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of Kenyans who rely on wood fuel for cooking and on the environment, which has suffered from deforestation due to felling trees for fuel.
