African countries have secured $900 million in new commitments to expand access to cleaner cooking technologies. The funding will support alternatives to firewood and charcoal, including electricity, biogas, ethanol and liquefied petroleum gas. Household air pollution from traditional cooking fuels contributes to respiratory illness and premature deaths, particularly among women and children. The new commitments bring total international pledges for clean cooking above $3 billion. Governments and energy organisations say the investment could also reduce deforestation and create new businesses, although challenges remain around affordability, fuel supply, infrastructure and access in rural communities.
