Gulu City has officially launched its Electric Pressure Cooker (EPC) initiative, marking a significant step toward cleaner, faster, and more sustainable cooking practices in Uganda. This initiative is part of a broader national effort supported by a UGX 33 billion clean cooking programme, jointly funded by the UK Government and Uganda’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development.
The programme aims to reduce reliance on traditional fuels like firewood and charcoal, which are increasingly scarce and contribute to deforestation and indoor air pollution. By promoting the adoption of EPCs and induction cookers, the initiative seeks to improve health outcomes, conserve the environment, and support Uganda's climate goals.
Electric Pressure Cookers offer numerous benefits, including reducing cooking time by up to 50%, preserving nutrients and flavors, and providing a safer cooking environment. These appliances are designed for use in households, institutions, and businesses, offering a versatile solution to modern cooking needs.
The launch event in Gulu featured live cooking demonstrations and highlighted the programme's commitment to making clean cooking accessible. A behavior change campaign will accompany the rollout, focusing on outreach in schools, cultural and religious institutions, and public spaces, as well as engaging with media and developing an eCooking mobile app for consumers.
This initiative builds upon previous research and pilot projects, which have demonstrated the potential of modern energy cooking services to transform the cooking landscape in Uganda.
By embracing electric cooking technologies, Gulu City is taking a proactive role in Uganda's National E-Cooking Strategy, which aims to increase electric cooking adoption from the current 1% to 20% by 2030. This move not only supports environmental conservation but also aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.
