The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved $8.79 million for the Uganda Biogas and Electric Cooking Project (UBEP), a key initiative to expand access to clean cooking across Uganda. About 89% of the population currently relies on unsustainable biomass, such as fuelwood and charcoal, contributing to deforestation and indoor air pollution. UBEP addresses these issues through a strategy that includes biogas plants for public institutions, electric cooking (eCooking) devices for urban households, awareness campaigns, and technical training to ensure operational sustainability.
The project consists of four components: construction of 47 biogas plants for schools, markets, and farming communities; distribution of 77,000 affordable eCooking devices in urban areas; establishment of standards and maintenance services for eCooking appliances; and technical assistance to scale the initiative. UBEP aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040 and energy transition goals, targeting an 18% national adoption of eCooking by 2030.
This initiative is part of the AfDB’s broader efforts to lower the estimated half a million annual deaths of women and children from indoor air pollution. It also promotes gender equity by reducing the time women spend collecting firewood, creating opportunities for education and economic advancement.
In addition to improving public health and reducing deforestation, UBEP will support forest conservation, enhance soil and water quality, and boost agricultural productivity. Funded primarily by the AfDB’s Climate Action Window, with support from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and the Ugandan government, UBEP marks a significant step toward a sustainable and resilient future for Uganda and the wider African region.
