Cooking with
solid fuels
The use of solid fuels for cooking and heating homes is a major problem in many developing countries. Household air pollution is responsible for 4.3 million deaths each year, according to WHO. Cooking with charcoal is a common practice in urban Kenya, especially in slums where people live very densely.
In a course, I had the chance to stay in Kisumu, Kenya for two months to work with local people (both organisations and individuals) to learn more about this problem.
Research
Concept
Co-Creation
We had an idea of a concept, but we needed help from local craftspeople to design and create a real product. Without them it would be impossible to design a product that will have a chance to last.
Final concept
The final product was made in two versions, one in metal and one in clay. The clay version has good insulation properties (preferred for e.g. families with children), and the metal version is light weight and durable. Both versions were made in two parts to make it simple to fill and empty. The both perform well and cost less than 2 USD to make.
Market and production
Production of clay Jiko Starters has begun, and a few samples have already been sold at local markets in Kisumu.
