BTG Set to Distribute Energy-Efficient Cookstoves to Women in Kaduna Communities to Mark International Women’s Day
By Uangbaoje Alex, Kaduna
To commemorate International Women’s Day, Bridge That Gap Hope for Africa Initiative (BTG) is set to distribute energy-efficient cookstoves to women in vulnerable and climate-affected communities in Chikun, Zaria, and Zango Kataf Local Government Areas of Kaduna State.
The distribution exercise is scheduled to commence on March 11, 2026.
The initiative targets women who rely heavily on firewood and charcoal for cooking, a practice that exposes families to health risks, environmental degradation, and the daily burden of sourcing fuel.
Through the distribution of energy-efficient cookstoves, the programme aims to reduce the quantity of charcoal and firewood used in households while promoting cleaner and safer cooking practices.
For many beneficiaries, the intervention is expected to significantly ease the physical and economic strain associated with traditional cooking methods. Women who often spend long hours gathering firewood will have more time for productive activities, while households are also expected to experience reduced fuel expenses due to the efficiency of the improved cookstoves.
Beyond the economic benefits, the clean cookstoves are designed to reduce indoor air pollution, a major health concern in communities where cooking is done with traditional open fires.
By producing less smoke, the stoves will help create safer cooking environments for women and children, lowering the risk of respiratory illnesses linked to prolonged exposure to smoke.
The distribution will also contribute to environmental protection. The energy-efficient cookstoves are expected to reduce charcoal use by more than 50 percent, helping to decrease the rate of tree cutting for fuel and supporting efforts to curb deforestation and land degradation in vulnerable communities.
The intervention forms part of the Women Empowerment and Climate Resilient Initiative (WECRI), implemented by BTG under the Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Engagement (PACE) Programme. The project promotes locally driven climate solutions while strengthening the role of women as key actors in climate action and community resilience.
Executive Director of BTG, Gloria Kasang Bulus, said the initiative reflects the spirit of this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain.”
She noted that empowering women with climate-friendly technologies generates benefits that extend beyond individual households to entire communities.
According to her, providing access to energy-efficient cookstoves is not only about improving cooking practices but also about strengthening livelihoods, protecting the environment, and enhancing the wellbeing of women and families.
Bridge That Gap Hope for Africa Initiative, a Kaduna-based nonprofit organisation, works to build sustainable communities by closing gaps in access to opportunities and basic rights among vulnerable populations.
Through grassroots programmes and advocacy, the organisation promotes initiatives in governance, education, climate action, livelihood support, disaster risk management, peace-building, and mental health support.
As part of its call to action during this year’s International Women’s Day, BTG is urging government institutions, the private sector, and development partners to increase investments in gender-responsive climate solutions that empower women and strengthen community resilience.
