According to the Ministry of Energy, nearly 70% of Kenyan households still rely on biomass for cooking, causing over 26,000 deaths annually from indoor air pollution. This urgent challenge was highlighted by Mr. Peter Thofoya during his keynote address at the 1st Biomass Briquettes Energy Conference and Exhibition, hosted by Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) on October 30–31, 2025.
The event showcased practical solutions to Kenya’s energy challenges, highlighting how bioenergy, clean cooking technologies, and student-led innovation are transforming lives.
The conference also provided a platform to discuss the Draft National Energy Policy 2025–2034, which aims to achieve universal access to electricity and clean cooking by 2030, expand renewable energy, and promote energy efficiency and sustainability.
Mr. Thofoya called for urgent and concerted efforts from government, industry, and academia to accelerate the adoption of bioenergy solutions.
“Scaling up bio-energy solutions like briquettes, biogas, and bioethanol is an environmental goal and a public health necessity,” he said.
He further urged stakeholders to collaborate to reduce indoor air pollution, create jobs, and make clean energy accessible nationwide.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi highlighted JKUAT’s commitment to turning research into actionable solutions.
She said, “Our students are not waiting until graduation to make an impact. Through research, hands-on projects, and strategic partnerships, they are developing solutions that reduce energy poverty, improve health, and protect our environment.”
Students showcased impactful projects, including the Gachororo Solar Project, which powers a school of over 1,000 children. The JKUAT Association of Green Energy (JAGE) has also led industrial energy projects, campus sustainability programs, and technical training.
The conference united stakeholders from KIRDI, KOICA, CCAK, KFS, KEFRI, The Charcoal Project, ISAK, KEBS, GIZ, Power Up, ICEA Lion, and other partners. Together, they explored ways to scale production, develop sustainable business models, and integrate innovative technologies into Kenya’s energy sector. The goal was toreduce dependence on imported fuels, create jobs, and make clean energy affordable nationwide.
Experts highlighted opportunities in biofuels for cooking, transport, and aviation, including biomass briquettes, bioethanol, biodiesel, and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Untapped resources such as agricultural residues, municipal waste, and energy crops could position Kenya as a leader in renewable energy innovation.
Thuku Gitau, JAGE President, noted the students’ role in turning ideas into action, highlighting their contributions to powering schools, promoting clean cooking solutions, and driving community-level innovation.
Prof. Ngumi lauded Jage noting that it is only through innovation, partnerships, and the energy of our youth, Kenya can achieve universal access to sustainable, safe, and affordable energy.”
