Vivo Energy Uganda, the marketer and distributor of Shell fuels and lubricants has launched an initiative that will among other promote use of clean cooking methods for educational institutions around the country.
The initiative will see Vivo enter strategic partnerships with educational institutions across the country to install Shell Gas facilities as a modern, safe, and sustainable cooking solution for schools to ensure they move away from firewood and charge to reduce pressure on the environment.
On Sunday, the initiative was launched at King’s College Budo in Wakiso district on the Founders Day, where the school got a high-capacity Shell Gas tank, a complete installation system with piping and meters, gas cylinders, burners, cookers, and critical safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, emergency shut-off valves, and protective fencing.
Additionally, the programme offers free training for school support staff on the safe use and handling of Shell Gas, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
“We are proud to collaborate with schools across Uganda to introduce safer and more sustainable cooking solutions. At Vivo Energy Uganda, we are committed to delivering high-quality energy solutions that not only enhance efficiency but also promote sustainability and community wellbeing. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to driving positive change in Uganda’s education sector and beyond,” said Joanita Menya Mukasa, Managing Director of Vivo Energy Uganda.
Alvin Bamutire, the Shella Gas Manager at Vivo Energy Uganda, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative.
“This initiative is crucial in reducing health risks associated with firewood and charcoal while significantly contributing to environmental conservation. It aligns with our sustainability framework, which prioritises the wellbeing of people, the protection of the planet, and impactful partnerships that drive long-term positive change. Our team is dedicated to ensuring a seamless installation process and providing ongoing support to schools for a smooth transition.”
Whereas the school would spend at least shs900,000 for a truck of firewood after every two days, they will now be spending shs5 million after every three weeks to refill the gas.
This according to officials will ensure the school saves a lot of money which previously went to buy charcoal.
Canon John Fred Kazibwe, Headmaster of King’s College Budo welcomed the initiative.
“As an institution that values both academic excellence and the wellbeing of our community, it is our duty to lead by example. This transition from charcoal and firewood to Shell Gas not only enhances the health and safety of our students and staff but also reinforces our commitment to environmental sustainability,” he said.
According to Alice Kaddu Ggaliwango, the school deputy headteacher in charge of welfare, whereas previously they would teach students about the benefits of saving the environment, they were not putting it into practice as a school since they used charcoal to prepare meals.
She however said with cooking gas now introduced, they will be putting into practice what they teach students.
“As the deputy in charge of welfare, the kitchen is under my docket. From 1993, to yesterday we have been using firewood as our source of fuel but has cause a lot of challenges and expenditure. Within just a month, the kitchen walls and roof are all dirty, black with soot. Imagine the people working in the kitchen to cooking the food for students, nine months a year. We think the initiative of a clean cooking is a gamechanger,” Kaddu said.
She applauded Vivo Energy for the initiative that she said will not only save funds but also save lives.