Nearly 3 billion people in the developing world cook food and heat their homes with traditional cookstoves or open fires. Four million premature deaths occur every year due to smoke exposure from these methods. In fact, this is the fifth worst risk factor for disease in developing countries and women and children are the most affected.
This project introduces the Gyapa, an insulated and efficient cookstove, to families in Ghana. The Gyapa stove cooks food more quickly, requires 50-60% less fuel and is less smoky. As such it not only cuts carbon emissions, but improves health by reducing exposure to toxic fumes.
Cutting fuel requirements saves families money and importantly, protects Ghana’s dwindling forests - it has one of the highest deforestation rates in Africa.
The project also creates jobs and develops skills. The liners are made by a small group of accredited local ceramicists who have received specialist training. The metal claddings are made by a further group of accredited manufacturers.
Relief International, our project partner in Ghana, provides training and quality control services, and distributes the stoves through a wide network of retailers.