The Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) Foundation has launched a Clean Energy Transition Programme aimed at improving access to clean cooking solutions while strengthening fire safety and community resilience in informal settlements.
The initiative seeks to reduce reliance on charcoal and firewood, promote cleaner energy adoption, and improve public health by lowering exposure to indoor air pollution.
Beyond clean cooking, the programme will address the persistent risk of fire outbreaks in informal settlements through specialised training of community responders. A total of 105 residents from Mukuru Viwandani will undergo firefighting training at the Morendat Institute of Oil and Gas, equipping them with skills to serve as community fire marshals and first responders during emergencies.
KPC Foundation Manager Rachel Gathoni said the programme goes beyond changing cooking methods by tackling broader challenges affecting vulnerable communities.
“This programme is about more than changing how people cook. It is about protecting families from harmful smoke, reducing fire risks, and improving the overall quality of life. When communities are given practical alternatives, real and lasting change becomes possible,” said Gathoni.
The Clean Energy Transition Programme supports KPC Foundation’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) commitments through promoting clean energy use, reducing environmental degradation, improving health outcomes and strengthening community safety systems.
The initiative also contributes to Kenya’s climate action goals and sustainable development targets by encouraging environmentally friendly energy solutions and building stronger communities.
The programme is being implemented in partnership with Vivo Energy Kenya, the distributor and marketer of Shell-branded fuels, and Afrigas LPG, highlighting the role of public-private partnerships in addressing social and environmental challenges.
KPC Foundation plans to expand the initiative to communities neighbouring KPC operations in Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Eldoret and Kisumu.
Through the integration of clean energy access, emergency preparedness and community empowerment, the Foundation aims to transform communities from vulnerability to resilience, risk to safety, and basic survival to improved dignity and quality of life.